I always love putting together January issues of our publications. It’s a new year, a fresh start, a time for resolutions and implementing policies and procedures that will help make the new year the best one yet.
And this issue helps you do just that as we introduce readers to the Top 100 Lawyers in Arizona for 2026 and the AZ Big 100 — the 50 business leaders and 50 organizations that will shape the state’s economy in 2026 and beyond.
Identifying and highlighting Arizona business leaders from diverse sectors is essential to building a thriving, future-ready economy. These leaders and organizations — whether in healthcare, technology, real estate, education, or manufacturing — are shaping the state’s direction with innovative thinking, bold decision-making, and a commitment to community impact. By recognizing trailblazers across industries, we inspire collaboration, foster cross-sector insights, and elevate the entire Arizona business ecosystem. From startups to legacy companies, from urban centers to rural communities, showcasing leadership excellence helps drive investment, attract top talent, and amplify the state’s influence on the national and global stage. Simply put, spotlighting Arizona’s business leaders is not just about honoring success — it’s about fueling the state’s momentum toward a smarter, stronger, and more inclusive future.
But it’s not just business leaders and companies. Organizations like the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) and the Arizona Mining Association — both highlighted in special sections inside this issue — are driving the state’s economy to new heights.
Enjoy this issue of Az Business. I guarantee you’re going to learn something.
Michael Gossie Editor in chief
Microsoft has awarded the Maricopa County Community College District’s Maricopa Promise Program $300,000 to provide financial assistance for eligible low- to moderate-income students living in the cities of El Mirage and Goodyear.
Microsoft’s donation is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to the well-being of the local community by supporting regional economic growth and addressing critical workforce demands. With data centers located in both El Mirage and Goodyear, Microsoft has had a longstanding partnership with the Maricopa Community Colleges, serving the local communities.
Dr. Rey Rivera, president of Estrella Mountain Community College, noted: “In 2018, we launched the Microsoft Datacenter Academy as a pioneering workforce development initiative designed to bridge the gap between education and industry, thereby developing a talent pipeline. Today, we are one of 17 Datacenter Academies in the world and are paving the way for high-paying, high-demand careers for our students.”
“Congratulations to the exceptional attorneys honored in the Top 100 Lawyers in Arizona 2026! Your unwavering commitment to excellence, influential leadership in the profession, and profound impact on clients and community alike are truly inspiring. We celebrate your achievement and look forward to your continued success in shaping Arizona’s legal landscape.”
Amy Lindsey Vice president and publisher AZ Big Media
President and CEO: Michael Atkinson
Vice president and publisher: Amy Lindsey
EDITORIAL
Editor in chief: Michael Gossie
Associate editor: Kyle Backer
Content editor: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski
Staff writer: Lux Butler
Contributing writer: Erin Thorburn
Interns: Ashley Aros | Senna James
ART
Creative services manager: Bruce Andersen
Chief photographer: Mike Mertes
Graphic designer: Leslie Durazo
MARKETING/EVENTS
Marketing and events director: Jacque Duhame
OFFICE
Director of finance: Sara Fregapane
Operations coordinator: Michelle Zesati
Database solutions manager: Amanda Bruno
AZRE | PTK
Director of sales: Ann McSherry
AZ BUSINESS | AZ BUSINESS LEADERS
Sales manager: April Rice
Account executives: Tom Allen | Maria Hansen | Lula Hunteman
EXPERIENCE ARIZONA | PLAY BALL
Director of sales: David Harken
Account executive: Lisa Allen
RANKING ARIZONA
Director of sales: Sheri King
Az Business magazine is published bi-monthly by AZ Big Media, 3101 N. Central Ave. Suite 1070, Phoenix, Arizona 85012, (602) 277-6045. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a SASE. Single copy price $4.95. Bulk rates available. Copyright 2026 by AZ Big Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from AZ Big Media.
The 2025 RealTrends Verified City Rankings, which recognize top producers in their local markets, has revealed the Top 50 Arizona real estate agents. The annual report ranks the top participating agents and teams in the U.S. for
2024 transaction sides and/or sales volume. RealTrends has been tracking and analyzing real estate performance data for 30 years. Here are the Top 25 real estate agents in Arizona for 2024, based on sales.
are 15
Innovative Arizona companies to watch in 2026 include health-tech pioneer Solera Health, data-sharing leader Datavant, climate‑tech firm Persefoni, prop-tech disruptor Lessen and CX maestro Nextiva — all redefining healthcare, sustainability, real estate operations and customer experiences in Arizona’s booming innovation economy.
Accuracy CPA: Accuracy CPA delivers personal, strategic accounting — empowering clients, especially Arizona dentists, with tailored tax planning and business growth support.
Arizona Wellness and Rewire Experience: Molly Nelson and Ashley Holland are transforming emotional wellness in Arizona through innovative, trauma-informed care and human-first, science-meets-soul healing programs.
Choulet Performance Psychiatry: Dr. Brook Choulet is redefining peak performance and mental health through elite psychiatry for executives, athletes and high achievers.
Helpany: Helpany’s AI-powered fall prevention tech is revolutionizing senior care in Arizona, reducing falls and enhancing resident safety and dignity.
Horizon Recovery: Horizon Recovery is transforming teen mental health with expanded centers, neuropsychology services, and innovative support through Teen Pathways Alliance.
Ideas Collide: Ideas Collide powers Arizona’s innovation scene with AI-driven marketing tools that elevate small businesses and global brands alike.
Defyne Plastic Surgery: Defyne Plastic Surgery leads in regenerative aesthetics with fat banking, awake surgery and groundbreaking care under Harvard-trained Dr. Oren Tessler.
eeCPA: Scottsdale-based eeCPA redefines accounting with a client-first subscription model, fostering proactive, collaborative financial strategies for entrepreneurs and investors.
Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Vet: Dr. Kelly’s provides low-cost vet care and surgeries, partnering with rescues to fight Arizona’s pet overpopulation crisis.
Gameday Men’s Health: Gameday Men’s Health leads nationally in PSA screenings, offering modern, approachable clinics focused on men’s vitality, longevity and proactive wellness.
Max Connect Digital: Max Connect Digital is accelerating Arizona’s business growth with precision marketing, smart audience targeting and scalable, ROI-driven strategies.
OOROO Auto: Jeff Artzi leads OOROO with purpose — driving community impact through philanthropic initiatives, local partnerships and employee-powered volunteerism across Arizona.
Proof Publicity: Proof Publicity is redefining Arizona PR with bold storytelling, measurable results, media partnerships and a strong commitment to local voices.
Western National Parks: Western National Parks strengthens bonds between communities and parks through education, innovation and philanthropy — shaping access, stewardship and sustainability nationwide.
Wildfire: Wildfire combats poverty statewide — securing utility discounts, protecting vulnerable residents and delivering lifechanging aid to thousands of Arizonans in need.
GAME-CHANGER: Brook Choulet, MD, led statewide mental health awareness initiatives with the NFL that positioned Arizona as a hub for innovation in mental health. (Photo provided by Brook Choulet, MD)
By MICHAEL GOSSIE
If you ask Dana Wicker, clothier for Tom James Company, what the biggest fashion faux pas Arizona business leaders make, she is quick to respond.
“The biggest mistake is they think that casual is going to be the best thing that’s going to help them win in business,” she says. “You can be comfortable and still look professional.”
How do you do that? Wicker offers these fashion tips for men and women who want to start the new year off by taking fashionforward steps.
Dress with intention: Always dress for the room you’re in — and the one you want to be in. First impressions form in six seconds, so be comfortable and polished.
Build a suit foundation: Every man should own five core suits — navy, charcoal, medium gray, black and a versatile option for events. Each serves a different professional or formal purpose.
Prioritize quality construction: Invest in well-made pieces. Avoid cheap materials like polyester and look for garments with hand-stitching and durable construction — they’ll look better and last longer.
Choose fabrics over labels: Prioritize high-quality fabrics over brand names — how your clothing feels and breathes will always elevate your look more than a logo or luxury tag.
Invest in versatile staples: Build your wardrobe with pieces that transition easily from casual to formal. Versatile staples save space, money and time while maximizing outfit combinations.
Dress in your best colors: Discover which colors complement your skin tone and base your wardrobe around them. Wearing the right shades enhances confidence and ensures every piece looks intentional and flattering.
Learn more: E-mail d.wicker@tomjames.com or visit tomjames.com
SUITED TO SUCCESS: Dana Wicker is a clothier for Tom James Company. (Photo by Bruce Andersen, Az Business, a publication of AZ Big Media)
Here are the 10 best places in Arizona for weight loss management, based on public voting by Az Business readers that was conducted at
Background: Valley Medical Weight Loss helps Arizonans achieve healthier, more confident lives through personalized, medically supervised programs. Patients benefit from physician-guided plans, nutritional counseling, appetite management and ongoing support tailored to individual goals. With proven results and compassionate care, Valley Medical Weight Loss makes sustainable transformation achievable — one milestone, one success and one patient at a time.
Editor’s note: To vote for upcoming AZ Big
By MICHAEL GOSSIE
What do you get when you combine executive networking, personal growth, fitness and fresh air? For a growing group of Arizona business leaders, the answer is Rise & Ruck Phoenix — a monthly gathering that’s redefining what it means to connect with purpose.
The concept is simple but powerful: A one-hour walk with a weighted backpack through scenic desert trails, followed by coffee, snacks and authentic conversation. But behind the simplicity lies something much more meaningful.
Rise & Ruck Phoenix was born in 2023 when a Valley entrepreneur Casey Strunk of Strunk Insurance Group was inspired Michael Easter’s book, “The Comfort Crisis: Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self.” Curious about Easter’s rucking adventures in Alaska, he picked up the book, read it and quickly felt a spark.
“I was already on a bit of a fitness journey,” Strunk explains. “I met a guy at a conference who owned a CrossFit gym in Cincinnati. He rucked with friends and clients once a month. I told him, ‘I’m
stealing that,’ and he said, ‘Go for it.’”
What began as a personal experiment has grown into a community of driven individuals who come together not for sales pitches or business cards, but for genuine connection and personal accountability.
“I was sick of lunches, sick of happy hours and I don’t do dinners,” Strunk says with a laugh. “But I still wanted to build relationships with people I care about — clients, friends, partners, new faces. Rise & Ruck gave me that space.”
WEIGHTING GAME: Rise & Ruck Phoenix is a community networking and wellness group that combines fitness and professional connection by hosting rucking meetups — group walks with weighted packs. (Photos by Bruce Andersen, Az Business, a publication of AZ Big Media)
Each Rise & Ruck takes place one Friday morning each month on lowelevation desert trails in Metro Phoenix. Participants carry 30–45 pounds — or not. It’s not a race. They walk and talk. Afterwards, there’s hot coffee and fruit waiting, with a table set up for continued conversation and community.
While business is not the main objective, it’s naturally part of the mix.
“There have been some powerful moments,” Strunk shares. “I know of investments that were made. There are
guys who’ve lost weights, gotten sober or made major life changes — just because they found support in this group.”
The success of Rise & Ruck Phoenix, he says, is not about metrics.
“There’s no real end goal,” Strunk says. “We might have 15 or 20 guys out. Some months, I get five new messages from people who saw the photos and want in. As long as we keep attracting good people with good energy, I’m happy.”
That authenticity is what makes Rise & Ruck special. There’s no charge to
attend, no agenda, no pitch deck. Just movement, conversation and connection.
“It’s deepened so many relationships,” Strunk says. “You don’t always get to see people during the year — but if someone came to 10 or 12 rucks, that’s more time than you get with most friends.”
In a fast-paced, digital world, Rise & Ruck is a return to something timeless: Real people, real talk, one step at a time. And just in time for New Year’s resolutions, that might be the best business decision of all.
As Greater Phoenix’s technology sector reclaims its momentum and evolves into a semiconductor and biotech powerhouse, here’s a look ahead and at the people and companies driving growth
By CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
The Greater Phoenix’s tech-focused business plan “lost its way” in the ’90s and early 2000s.
The ship has since righted and these international and domestic partnerships have been invaluable.
“The tech industry has driven Arizona’s economy since the 1940s,” says Christine Mackay, Greater Phoenix Economic Council president and CEO.
“The feds wooed the tech industry back to the state after the industrial mandate was lifted. The ‘industrial mandate’ said no sensitive assets could ever be on a coast so they couldn’t be bombed like they were in Pearl Harbor.”
Opportunities arise
In that same decade, a federal delegation met with and brought to Arizona a “little startup” called Galvin Electronics. That morphed into Motorola, which was the state’s largest employer.
Similarly, a farmer’s daughter led a chamber of commerce that approached a “little startup” about relocating to Arizona: A 3-year-old company called Intel.
The challenges resurfaced during the Great Recession of late 2007 to mid 2009, and the state lost 50% of its assessed valuations almost overnight.
“We were never a group to take a good ‘recession’ and let it go to waste,” Mackay quips.
“We really used that opportunity to restructure and reframe the economy in Greater Phoenix.”
Coming out of the Great Recession, the economic development community, the business community and elected officials worked diligently to ensure it would not happen again, she said.
It paid off.
The Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity recently released job projections for the state.
Its transition from post-recession surge (2.5% annual growth) to sustainable expansion (1.2% through 2034) reveals a maturing economy that will continue
outperforming the nation while adding 454,167 jobs by 2034, according to OEO’s report.
This forecast shows the sectors that will drive growth, which face disruption, and how the state’s economic footprint nationally is expected to expand from 1.8% to 2.3% by 2034.
Programs in place
“We really spent the recession putting programs together that made us competitive on a national scale,” Mackay says. “We have really created this economy that is thriving. And I do believe that Greater Phoenix is going to be the one of
the bright spots over the next few years as things modify and happen.”
Mackay said GPEC will continue to move along as it has for the last five years, and bring “new, great, advanced industry companies into Greater Phoenix.”
Thomas Maynard, GPEC’s senior vice president, business development, is “super excited about the future. There are a few things that we’re really focused on.”
The region’s advanced manufacturing boom — specifically in the semiconductor industry — is the priority, Maynard says.
“Not only that, but we have battery space with LG Energy Solution down in Queen Creek. That should be the gift that keeps
on giving, in terms of new supply chain companies that are looking to grow and expand.”
He and his team are encouraged by the bio and life sciences industry, which continues to grow as the sector looks to reshore and onshore back into North America.
“Greater Phoenix has a really, really unique story to tell on that end,” Maynard says.
“That’s what keeps us excited. More broadly, not just semiconductor or battery space, but just more of these advanced manufacturing and users that are moving here. It seems like people are wanting to
GPEC will continue to move along as it has for the last five years, and bring new, great, advanced industry companies, into Greater Phoenix.
— Christine Mackay, president and CEO Greater Phoenix Economic Council
build more in the United States. They’re trying to figure out where in the United States they want to do that.”
Greater Phoenix is now a major contender, he continues.
“We’re excited to continue that trend, and hopefully we can be a resource for these folks going forward,” Maynard says.
GPEC’s staff and stakeholders are excited about Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), Intel and LG. “They get all the big headlines — and rightfully so — because those are the major, major investments,” he says.
Mainstream corporations like Dutch Bros are also making waves.
“If you’re driving along the [Loop] 202, you can see their headquarters right there in the city of Tempe,” Maynard says.
Growing nationwide, Dutch Bros found Greater Phoenix was a fit for its headquarters.
“We’re really excited and proud about that one,” Maynard says.
Not all the expanding corporations have brand-name recognition, however. “Many complete industry ecosystems by making electrical components that go into the utility grid, or the batteries, energy storage
systems and containers that help grow our economy. They’re also making these components in our market. That is what’s really exciting.”
Mackay and Maynard say Sister Cities International plays a significant role.
“Phoenix has really cornered the market for its Sister City program,” Maynard says.
“They’re very impactful. They use it, not only to have those diplomatic, relationship building activities, but to enhance business attraction efforts.
“I know the other cities, other than Phoenix, are looking toward their Sister City relationships to see how they can use that not only for diplomatic ties between those two markets, but to build the business connection. So yeah, it’s great. Greater Phoenix is on the map — whether we like it or not — from an international perspective.”
About 15% to 20% of the state’s business comes from California companies looking to relocate and are drawn to the market’s cost, location and infrastructure.
“Silicon Valley is still the main hub for semiconductor headquarters and R&D,” Maynard says.
“I would make the argument that Arizona, specifically the Greater Phoenix area, is definitely the hub for the manufacturing
part of the process, of the semiconductor process, at least in the United States.
“We do recruit, and have worked with California-based semiconductor companies that have their headquarters, or major operational hub, in Silicon Valley, but need to build a manufacturing facility where there is more room. They’re looking at markets like Greater Phoenix.”
Maynard says foreign direct investment is poured into the United States across the board.
“Canada is our No. 1 market from an FDI perspective, which is pretty interesting when you consider that the current relationship between the United States and Canada and the rhetoric that’s happening at the federal level. I think that just proves the United States is still a great market from a consumer perspective. There are a lot of Canadians who live here in Arizona, so we’re continuing to build that bridge and that relationship between us in Canada.”
As the region looks toward the future, the AZ Big 100 — the 50 individuals and 50 companies identified by Az Business magazine’s editorial board as the biggest drivers of Arizona’s economy in the upcoming year — will be the innovators who shape the state’s economy moving forward. Meet them on the pages that follow.
Annual reviews, on-site audits and custom energy strategies guide businesses toward smarter, more efficient operations
By ERIN THORBURN
Anew year marks a time for many to re-evaluate and establish new goals and businesses are no different. Often, companies make cost savings and increased profitability No. 1 on their list of resolutions. Knowing this, the SRP Business Solutions Program is designed to identify any inefficiencies and help midsize companies save — and not just at the beginning of the year.
Making energy-efficient adjustments to lighting, HVAC, and custom projects can lead to significant savings for businesses in virtually every industry. Midsize companies — those that use 300,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) or more of total energy annually — can qualify for up to $300,000 yearly in rebates under the SRP Business Solutions program.
But how does a company know if and when energy-efficient upgrades are needed?
This is where SRP’s Strategic Energy Managers (SEM) and SRP annual reviews come in. Every business is assigned a dedicated SEM for its SRP account. These “energy-efficiency ambassadors” conduct site visits, account audits, facility energy audits and custom energy reports.
Each time a new year begins, SEMs gear up to help midsize companies devise an energy-efficient strategy.
“Annual reviews are important in helping to identify seasonal demand spikes, highlight inefficiencies in HVAC, lighting and refrigeration systems,” says
Shane Plein, SEM for SRP. “These insights allow businesses to plan upgrades and take advantage of SRP rebates.”
Plein mentions lighting as one of the ways businesses can benefit by becoming more energy efficient. The savings involved may surprise you!
“LED lighting retrofits are huge,” he says. “Rebates typically range from 25 cents to 35 cents per watt reduced.”
Another inefficiency to snuff out? The way businesses handle their HVAC system.
“We’ll have customers with business hours that end at 5 p.m. and their HVAC is running all night,” Plein says. “So they are heating and cooling rooms that they don’t need to.”
Another annual energy saver can be addressing refrigeration, air conditioning (A/C) and even air leaks (in the roof).
Evaluating these areas are relatively low cost (or no cost at all), with an easy return, according to Plein.
One aspect of the SRP Business Solutions program that Arizona customers appreciate most is that it’s open to all industries. While Plein mainly works with hotels, golf courses and family entertainment businesses, he notes that SRP welcomes working with midsize companies in varying markets.
“SRP has a Custom Business Solutions
Program that we can work with the business to specifically design projects unique to their operations,” Plein says.
For businesses looking to improve their energy efficiency and take advantage of maximum rebate options, SEMs are always available to help. While an annual review is a good jumping-off place, a business can call its dedicated SEM at any time for advice on how to save.
SEMs also make house calls.
“We have a third-party company that handles the rebates specifically, and we can go in with them,” Plein explains.
Often, when on-site, an SEM may spot an area of energy-efficiency improvement.
“I’ll look up and see old-school lighting and say, ‘Hey, you guys ever thought about replacing that?’” Plein says.
In addition to going onsite and conducting annual reviews, Plein says businesses can also save with SRP’s Demand Response Program (DRP). Companies can get rebates for reducing energy consumption from the grid for brief periods throughout the year.
For SEMs, it always goes back to fostering relationships with the businesses they serve.
“We’re always available to talk to the customer, see what they have going on and how we can help,” Plein says.
There is no cost to sign up for the SRP Business Solutions Plan. To learn more, visit Savewithsrpbiz.com.
Crow has led ASU since 2002, championing the “New American University” model and expanding research, innovation and global impact. Under his guidance, ASU became a top-tier public university with significant growth in academics, research and enrollment.
to the leadership of Michael Crow, ASU’s peers have ranked the university No. 1 in innovation — for the 11th year in a row. (Photo by
Dent, ASU News)
Wells Fargo
Ackaert is Wells Fargo’s commercial banking market executive for Arizona and Nevada, providing financing solutions to manufacturers, real estate developers and service firms. She drives regional growth, supports cash-flow management for businesses and guides middle -market clients through complex capital needs.
Maricopa County Community College District
Barajas leads workforce and economic development strategy for the largest community college system in the U.S. He builds industry-driven training programs, cultivates employer partnerships and authors statewide workforce reports — aligning education with Arizona’s evolving labor market needs.
Mayor // City of Peoria
Beck serves as mayor of Peoria, leading the city through major development and growth phases. He supports infrastructure expansion, community planning and collaborative public-private partnerships, shaping Peoria’s long -term urban vision and civic growth.
Boor currently serves as president and CEO of Cavco Industries, a manufacturer of factory-built homes. Leading the company since 2019, Boor has spearheaded strategic brand acquisitions and organizational restructuring initiatives.
Borgonovi is president of Raytheon’s Naval Power business unit, overseeing advanced missile, radar and defense sensor systems. A 20 -year Raytheon veteran, she previously served as senior vice president of corporate strategy and development.
Mayor // City of Scottsdale
Borowsky became Scottsdale’s mayor in January 2025, drawing on her long tenure as a Phoenix-area litigator and former city councilmember.
Bruckner is the chief banking officer for Western Alliance Bank. He is responsible for oversight of the company’s regional banking operations nationwide, as well as certain specialty lending business lines.
Burgess is the founding partner of the Burgess Law Group. For two decades, she has specialized in commercial litigation and labor and employment law representing clients, ranging from Fortune 500 companies to start-up businesses.
Coley was appointed CEO of Banner|Aetna in 2025, bringing over 20 years of health-plan leadership. She leads the insurer’s strategic direction, focusing on expanding care access, improving outcomes and fostering innovation in Arizona’s healthcare market.
Background: Biro is the Forensic and Investigative Services Practice leader at REDW Advisors and CPAs, guiding strategy and vision in alignment with firm-wide goals. She brings deep experience in fraud investigations and forensic tracing for civil and family law matters and has supported engagements with Tribal Nations, the U.S. Department of Justice, New Mexico state agencies, major insurance companies and leading law firms in Arizona, New Mexico and Oklahoma.
Innovative acts: “I am especially proud of creating and fostering a truly collaborative approach to forensic accounting investigations, made possible by our exceptional team. By working closely with fellow REDW professionals across technology, risk advisory, audit and assurance, corporate finance, and accounting advisory practices, we intentionally build cross-functional teams that look beyond a single issue or service line. Together, we guide clients from investigating immediate concerns to developing safeguards and long-term risk mitigation strategies. This team-driven approach allows us to respond more strategically to complex matters while delivering practical, well-rounded solutions and building lasting, trust-based client relationships.”
Learn more: redw.com
Dr. Bryce leads both clinical operations and strategic initiatives to advance cancer care in Arizona through City of Hope Cancer Center Phoenix. A board-certified medical oncologist and researcher, Dr. Bryce specializes in genitourinary cancers, with a focus on prostate and testicular cancers. Dr. Bryce is also a professor in the Department of Molecular Medicine at the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), part of City of Hope, where he collaborates on leadingedge research in cancer genomics and novel therapeutics. His work emphasizes precision medicine — analyzing tumors at the molecular level to identify individualized
With a research portfolio centered on cancer genetics, immunotherapy and innovative therapies, Dr. Bryce is committed to leveraging genomic insights to improve outcomes and move closer to cures for prostate cancer. Through his clinical leadership and research, Dr. Bryce exemplifies City of Hope’s mission to deliver compassionate, innovative cancer care and bring hope to patients and families across Arizona.
Dr. Bryce earned his medical degree from Finch University of Health Sciences/Chicago Medical School and completed his residency and fellowship training at Mayo Clinic, Minnesota, where he served as chief fellow. He is board certified in internal medicine and medical oncology and has been widely published in peer-reviewed
cityofhope.org/phoenix
Background: Booher is president and COO of CopperPoint Insurance Companies, leading growth and transformation with a focus on delivering world-class customer and broker experiences and innovative product and service solutions. Prior to joining CopperPoint, Booher built a track record of leading profitable growth across both commercial and consumer insurance offerings at Chubb and Travelers. He has held broad P&L and functional leadership responsibilities in markets across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Asia Pacific and Australia. Kellen earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from Denison University, where he graduated summa cum laude, and a master’s in international affairs from Penn State University.
Act of innovation: “Nearly 20 years ago, I made the decision to turn down a larger role in the function I was in and take an assignment in a completely new function. Doing so set me on a path of lifelong learning about this complex business, and it is something I’ve done more than once in my career. Continuously building new skills and managing different dynamics has paid dividends in a world where adaptability and learning new tools and technologies has never been more important. It keeps you humble, teaches you to ask questions and think 360, and to seek out viewpoints from your customers, your partners, and your teams.”
Secret sauce: “I don’t consider it a secret, as great mentors graciously shared it with me and others. It’s pretty simple: surround yourself with smart people who challenge you to be 1% better each day, and commit to a growth mindset together. Build a sound strategy that creates value, turn it into an action plan and execute it. Measure the outcomes to learn and adjust as needed. Repeat, repeat, repeat. Have as much fun as possible while doing this.”
Learn more: copperpoint.com
INSURANCE INNOVATOR: Kellen Booher is President and COO of CopperPoint Insurance Companies. (Photo by Bruce Andersen, Az Business, a publication of AZ Big Media)
Background: With more than 30 years of leadership experience in Phoenix’s financial sector, Burton, market president at First Fidelity Bank, knows the meaning of exceptional service. Leading by example, he and his team live by the motto, ‘say what you will do and do what you say.’ For the past four years, Burton’s commercial banking team has ranked as Arizona’s No. 1 SBA 504 lender by delivering excellent financial solutions to small business owners resulting in significant bank expansion in the state.
Community impact: Burton’s involvement in the community is long-standing. He currently serves on the East Valley Partnership Management Board and has served on the Mesa United Way Board of Directors for more than 20 years. Burton holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Brigham Young University and a graduate degree from Pacific Coast Banking School in Seattle, Washington.
Learn more: ffb.com
James Goodnow, CEO of Fennemore, is deeply committed to redefining what it means to lead in the legal industry while fostering a culture of collaboration and client-focused service. (Az Business file photo)
Goodnow is the CEO of Fennemore, one of the country’s fastest-growing Am Law 200 firms. A forwardthinking leader, he has helped transform the firm by integrating innovative business strategies and cutting-edge technology.
Currier leads Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, steering the Phoenix- based division toward innovation and growth. A nearly 20 -year Honeywell veteran, he has held global leadership roles and now directs the aerospace unit’s strategy.
Drucker leads the state’s largest real estate trade association, representing over 54,000 members and advocating for homeownership, housing policy and industry support across Arizona.
Arizona Public Service Company (APS)
Geisler leads Arizona’s largest electric utility and its parent company, Pinnacle West, driving reliability, customer -focused strategy and operational excellence after rising through APS leadership roles since 2001.
As regional president, Gerber leads WaFd Bank’s Arizona operations, pushing commercial and industrial growth with a relationship -focused approach.
Hague — lawyer turned entrepreneur — founded 72SOLD and Hague Partners, transforming home sales with a fixed-fee, rapid- sale model. He’s consistently recognized among Arizona’s most dynamic real estate disruptors.
Hall has led the Diamondbacks since 2009, guiding baseball operations and organizational growth. Under his leadership, the franchise expanded its community initiatives and strengthened its reputation for leadership and civic engagement in Arizona.
Houston leads CommonSpirit Health’s Arizona market, overseeing eight acute care hospitals, medical groups and care networks while advancing strategic healthcare delivery across the state.
Junior, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and financial services leader, founded Trajan Wealth in Scottsdale in 2012. He has grown the fiduciary firm nationwide, emphasizing client education, integrated wealth and retirement planning, and ethical financial guidance.
Kaplan is redefining Arizona’s business landscape as founder, president and CEO of Evolve PR & Marketing, the state’s largest public relations firm with over 140 clients and 28 publicists.
As a partner and director of attorney development, Karpel has completed over 40 jury trials to verdict and has been voted a “Super Lawyer” in the Southwest Super Lawyers publication in 2020 and 2021.
Background: With a distinguished career in orthopedic surgery, Dr. Jacofsky served as a Mayo Foundation Scholar in Orthopedic Surgery and division director at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. Dr. Jacofsky completed his MD magna cum laude at the Medical College of Pennsylvania, followed by residency at Mayo Graduate School of Medicine and a fellowship at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. While at Mayo he was awarded the Joe Janes Humanitarian Award. He is credited with over 100 peer reviewed publications, over 25 book chapters, three textbooks and is an inventor listed on over 30 patents. He has been recognized with awards including Az Business magazine’s “Most Influential Healthcare Leaders” and multiple “Healthcare Innovator” honors. He serves on numerous corporate boards and his focus remains advancing value-based musculoskeletal care and orthopedic innovation.
Goals for 2026: “The continued shift toward value-based, outcomes-driven care is reshaping the field of orthopedics, and The CORE Institute is leading this transformation. By leveraging data, advanced technology and innovative care models, we are improving quality, enhancing patient satisfaction and expanding access to advanced musculoskeletal treatment across the communities we serve. As we look to 2026, we are focused on growth, innovation and collaboration. We will continue to expand our reach, strengthen partnerships with healthcare organizations and physician networks, and deliver exceptional orthopedic outcomes that improve the lives of patients nationwide. At the same time, we are pioneering new approaches to patient care, advancing clinical research and redefining what it means to provide musculoskeletal excellence. Through these efforts, The CORE Institute remains committed to setting the standard for orthopedic care by driving better outcomes, increasing accessibility and creating a patient experience that reflects our dedication to clinical excellence and innovation in every aspect of musculoskeletal health.”
Learn more: thecoreinstituteaz.com
INDUSTRY INNOVATOR: Dr. David Jacofsky is an internationally recognized orthopedic surgeon, healthcare innovator and physician-executive. (Provided photo)
Background: Listo is a member of the Tohono O’odham Nation hailing from the Rincon community located in the Sells District of the Nation. Listo currently serves as the general manager overseeing the Desert Diamond Casino West Valley and Desert Diamond Casino White Tanks located in the San Lucy District of the Tohono O’odham Nation. Listo previously served as the general manager for both Southern Arizona properties (Sahuarita, Tucson, and Why) prior to coming into this new position in the Phoenix West Valley metropolitan area. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Phoenix and brings an extensive amount of leadership experience and a deep commitment to advancing the economic vision of the Tohono O’odham Nation.
Role models: Listo has had significant tribal role models throughout her career at the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, such as the current CEO Daniele Chilton, and the late Libby Francisco who served as the COO of Desert Diamond Casino for many years. Chilton and Francisco provided guidance and leadership to Listo, which helped her advance in her career within the gaming industry.
Career evolution: Listo has held various positions throughout her career including front-line and middle management roles which has helped her understand all aspects of the casino operation to successfully perform her role in her leadership position. She supports and encourages the development of tribal members as she has benefited from such programs throughout her career. With more than 30 years of gaming and management experience Listo is excited to utilize her knowledge and work experience to continue the legacy of Desert Diamond Casino being a leader in the gaming industry.
Learn more: ddcaz.com/west-valley
Desert Diamond Casino celebrates Karen’s selection to the 2026 AZ Big 100, honoring her contributions to Arizona’s business landscape and to the Tohono O’odham Nation.
From her early roles in casino operations to leading our West Valley and White Tanks properties today, Karen’s dedication, resilience, and mentorship have strengthened our enterprise and enriched the communities we serve.
Desert Diamond Casino is proud to stand beside her as she helps shape the future of Arizona.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona
Kehaly, is known for making bold moves to support Arizona — and with AZ Blue’s Prosano Health Advanced Primary Care Clinics, she is just getting started.
HEALTHCARE HERO: Pam Kehaly is the dynamic CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, known for her big heart and even bigger job of inspiring health and making it easy. (Az Business file photo)
Columbia Bank
Knudson is Arizona market director for Columbia Bank. Knudson brings 17 years of banking experience to the position, serving in various capacities from credit, sales and executive management.
Paul Luna
Helios Education Foundation
Luna has been instrumental in steering the foundation’s mission toward fostering opportunities for all students to succeed in postsecondary education, with a focus on low-income and historically underrepresented communities in Arizona.
Clate Mask
Keap
Mask co -founded Keap, a Phoenix- based CRM and sales -automation platform for small businesses. He’s a New York Times bestselling author (“Conquer the Chaos” ) and a frequent contributor to major business publications.
St. Joseph the Worker (The Worker)
Under Masters’ leadership, St. Joseph the Worker has expanded its Workforce Villages transitional housing program, addressing one of the greatest barriers to employment: housing insecurity.
McLeod leads the Flinn Foundation, directing philanthropic efforts that strengthen Arizona’s bioscience innovation, civic leadership and arts sectors. A former APS executive, she drives statewide collaboration, economic development and strategic grantmaking.
As CEO of Activate Health, a specialized marketing and PR firm, McLeod has led initiatives promoting local care access on behalf of payer and provider entities like Banner|Aetna and Dignity Health.
Bill Nance
StrataTech Education Group
Named CEO in October 2025, Nance brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in secondary, postsecondary and nontraditional education. He has developed programs that enhance student learning while driving institutional growth.
Pattea was elected president of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation in January 2024, becoming the Nation’s first new president in nearly two decades.
Freeport-McMoRan
As current president and CEO and as a senior member of the company’s executive team for more than 20 years, Quirk has been instrumental in Freeport’s strategic planning and execution of company goals.
Gila River Indian Community
Lewis is in his third term serving as governor of the Community. Gov. Lewis advocates for renewable and green technologies guided by O’odham agricultural history and cultural teachings.
Founder and CEO // Rafi Law Group
Background: Rafi is the founder and CEO of Rafi Law Group, Arizona’s premier personal injury law firm with offices in Phoenix, Tucson and Yuma. Raised in Arizona and educated at Brophy College Preparatory, the University of Arizona and Phoenix School of Law, he built his firm on the belief that everyone deserves strong and reliable legal representation. Under his leadership, the firm has grown to more than 250 professionals and is recognized for its commitment to justice and community service. Rafi also created Rafi’s Hope, a community initiative that supports children and families across Arizona.
Innovative actions: “One of the most innovative decisions I made was investing early in technology and in-house creative talent to build a fully integrated marketing and operations team. This shift allowed us to communicate directly with clients, streamline case management and maintain full control of our brand as we grew. By combining strong legal work with forward-thinking marketing and internal support systems, we created a model that keeps clients informed, improves efficiency and strengthens relationships. This approach played a major role in our growth and helped us stay true to who we are as a firm and as a team.”
Learn more: rafilawgroup.com
Background: Cristal Rodriguez is a marketing powerhouse reshaping how the world sees Tempe. As director of marketing for Tempe Tourism, she spearheaded the city’s award-winning rebrand and launch of a new website that reintroduced Tempe as a premier, innovative travel destination. Her bold vision and storytelling have elevated the city’s national profile, driving record engagement and tourism growth. Beyond her professional achievements, Rodriguez is a passionate mentor and community leader, serving with the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) Phoenix to empower the next generation of Latino professionals. Blending a mix of creativity, purpose and leadership, Rodriguez brings a valuesdriven approach to inclusive marketing, mentorship, and building high-performance brand ecosystems
Recent accomplishments: Recent recognitions include an Athena nomination, multiple ADDY Awards and Rodriguez was named the 2025 AMA Arizona Marketer of the Year, recognized for her extensive experience in brand transformation, digital innovation and inclusive marketing strategies, leading award-winning campaigns and digital initiatives across public and private sectors.
Learn more: tempetourism.com
Bell Bank
Outcalt is a seasoned Arizona commercial banker with 18-plus years of experience, rising from teller to vice president at Bell Bank. She specializes in complex treasury, lending and compliance solutions while supporting local business growth and community initiatives.
Desirae Outcalt, vice president commercial banker at Bell Bank, was one of Az Business magazine’s Most Influential Women of 2017. (Photo by Bruce Andersen, Az Business, a publication of AZ Big Media)
When Arizona’s small business owners want to open or grow their businesses but don’t fit conventional lending parameters, they are able to turn to Rosthenhausler of CDC Small Business Finance.
Lerner & Rowe
Rowe’s name has become synonymous with “Arizona’s top injury lawyer.” He also founded Lerner & Rowe Gives Back, which raises over $1 million each year to support important causes in Arizona.
Greater Phoenix Chamber
As president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Chamber & Foundation, Sanders launched its foundation with ElevateEdAZ, an education initiative, impacting over 180,000 students across 27 schools.
In September 2025, Sands was named chief market officer of PNC after the organization announced a definitive agreement to acquire FirstBank Holding Company.
Leading one of the state’s largest brokerages, Sarchett has played a critical role in doubling the firm’s footprint while guiding Arizona businesses through skyrocketing premiums and complex risk.
As office managing shareholder of Ogletree Deakins’ Phoenix office, Shivers counsels employers in all aspects of employment law, including an emphasis on complex compliance projects.
West-MEC
Spurgeon leads West-MEC, expanding career and technical education across Arizona’s West Valley. He has strengthened industry partnerships, workforce -aligned programs and student outcomes.
Tignini leads JPMorganChase’s middle -market commercial banking team across Arizona and Nevada, delivering strategic financing, treasury and risk-management solutions while supporting regional business growth.
Villanueva-Saucedo is the associate vice chancellor of the Center for Excellence in Inclusive Democracy at Maricopa Community Colleges.
As the CEO of Hancock Builders, Whiteley leads the company’s strategic expansion across Arizona, leveraging her deep industry knowledge and operational experience to drive growth in the firm’s general contracting services.
Walsh is the CEO and founder of Blue Signal Search, an award-winning recruiting firm specializing in the wireless and telecom, AI and data center industries.
Background: Salcido is the founder and CEO of Roman Empire Agency, a leading provider of services for individuals with developmental disabilities. She began her career at Westside Regional Center and North Los Angeles Regional Center before founding the agency with her husband in 2010. Under her leadership, the company has grown to serve thousands of clients across multiple states and employs approximately 1,000 team members. Salcido holds a juris doctor, an LL.M., a master’s in education and additional credentials in teaching and applied behavior analysis. She leads with a commitment to individualized care, inclusion, and community impact.
Act of innovation: “My most innovative decision has been leading Roman Empire Agency into community partnerships that expand inclusion beyond traditional services. I played a central role in creating sensory rooms at major sports venues, including State Farm Stadium and Chase Field, where fans with sensory sensitivities can access fully staffed, calming spaces supported by trained behavioral health professionals. These collaborations with the Arizona Cardinals, Arizona Diamondbacks and Sun Devil Athletics set a new standard for accessibility by integrating therapeutic support directly into high-traffic public environments. This work has opened sports and entertainment experiences to families who previously could not attend.”
Secret sauce: “My success comes from my handson leadership style, my clear communication, and my commitment to supporting both families and staff. I stay closely connected to daily operations, offer consistent guidance, and ensure my team has the resources needed to succeed. My multidisciplinary education in law, education, and applied behavior analysis strengthens my ability to make informed decisions that benefit clients and employees. By listening to families and prioritizing individualized care, I have fostered a culture of compassion, growth, and resilience. This combination of expertise, empathy, and accountability has driven the agency’s sustained expansion and impact.”
Learn more: romanempireagency.com
INDUSTRY ADVOCATE: Gabriela Salcido is the founder and CEO of Roman Empire Agency, a leading provider of services for individuals with developmental disabilities. (Provided photo)
Adaptive Skills Training (AST)
Supported Living Services (SLS)
Providing the Following Services
Self-Determination Program (SDP) Arizona, California, Florida, Hawaii, Nevada, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington
Through Health Insurance Plans & CA Regional Care:
Social Skills
Group Parent Training/Workshop Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) & Behavior Modification
Our partner locations provide a wide range of services for individuals with autism or any other developmental disability (age 2 and up), ensuring that you or your loved one will receive accurate, quality care from trained and experienced professionals.
CEO // Torres Multicultural
Background: Torres, CEO of Torres Multicultural, is a pioneering force in Arizona’s business and cultural landscape. As the founder of the state’s longest-standing multicultural marketing agency, she has led high-impact multicultural engagement campaigns shaping Arizona’s major infrastructure, healthcare and civic initiatives-most notably the $1.36 billion South Central Light Rail and $832 million I-10 Broadway Curve projects. She was named 2025 Small- and Medium-Sized Business Leader of the Year at Az Business magazine’s Champions of Change Awards.
Innovative acts: A visionary Latina leader, Torres is evolving her firm to meet the future — infusing new technologies into strategy, adapting to shifting political tides and defending inclusive communications amidst national DEI rollbacks. Her award-winning work, economic impact and cultural leadership position her as a business powerhouse to watch in 2026 and beyond.
Learn more: torresmulticultural.com
Vynalek is a native Arizonan with vision and deep commitment to thriving ecosystems in the private and public sectors across the state and region. Whether in business, community service or personally, Vynalek uses his extensive experience in both law and leadership to serve his clients and the philanthropic causes he champions. Vynalek joined Quarles over 25 years ago as a summer associate and has risen to leadership within the law firm as its president. He was tapped to serve in the president’s role in 2020 to take advantage of his extraordinary capacity to connect, serve, problem solve and maximize opportunities. As a lawyer, Vynalek has principally practiced as a litigator who advises on strategy, exposure and enterprise opportunity for clients who range from local startups to iconic brands to Fortune 500 companies. In the community, Vynalek applies his talents to causes he holds dear. Passionate about education, he just completed a two-year term as Teach for America’s board chair and has held numerous committee assignments since 2015; he is former board chair of Make-AWish Arizona and founded their Guardians Circle; he serves on the Greater Phoenix Economic Council’s executive committee and board of directors and was on the search committee for GPEC’s newly named president and CEO; and he is active in other community, economic development and business leadership roles. Within the legal profession, Vynalek has received many awards for excellence as a practitioner, actively supports emerging attorneys and serves as a mentor to young talent at Quarles. He is a devoted family man to his wife and three children, an avid and active alumnus at University of Arizona’s law school and Stanford University where he received his undergraduate degree.
Innovative act: “As an eager associate, I launched a CEO and Business Leadership Summit so that young emerging leaders could learn from our community titans like Sharon Harper, Betsey Bayless and Jerry Colangelo. It brought together extraordinary business leaders from across industries, created new linkages and provided an inspirational platform for becoming the best leader you could be for the community.”
“Believe, empower and take action; and surround yourself with extraordinary Encourage and support your people by creating a culture in which talents are maximized Then, focus on shared purpose to collaboratively move forward united.”
quarles.com
Background: As the EY Arizona managing partner, Westemeier helps more than 430 colleagues provide superior client service. Her in-depth industry knowledge and 20-plus years of accounting experience prepared her well for this role, and in her first year as managing partner, she has already made an impact on our business community. Her personable leadership is especially valuable amid economic and geopolitical upheaval. By working with her team to provide thorough assurance, tax and consulting services, Westemeier is creating more confidence right when businesses need it most. She also elevates the next generation of leaders through initiatives like the Arizona Women’s Leadership Forum.
Acts of innovation: “Working with my teammates to identify, as early as possible, the trends that will shape our clients’ lives. Long before generative AI became an everyday force in every major sector, my teammates and I were developing the technical and risk management skills that are crucial to successful AI adoption. To me, that’s a key part of what innovation is all about: Looking around the corner to see what’s coming, then preparing the people around you for success.”
Learn more: ey.com/en_us
Amkor’s expanding advanced semiconductor packaging campus in Peoria is a cornerstone of Arizona’s chip industry, driving multibillion-dollar investment, thousands of jobs, and critical domestic semiconductor supply - chain capacity.
Achieve has served more than 1.5 million members, resolved over $20 billion in debt, and given more than $10 billion in loans to help everyday people get on the path to a better financial future.
Align Technology’s global headquarters in Tempe anchors the orthodontic tech sector, creating jobs, boosting Arizona’s innovation profile, and strengthening its reputation as a hub for medical device development and high-tech corporate investment.
Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arevon Energy develops utility-scale solar and energy-storage projects nationwide, delivering clean power, community tax revenue, jobs, and renewable infrastructure while advancing grid reliability and energy independence.
Arizona State University is a major economic engine, contributing billions to the state’s GDP, creating jobs, spurring startups and research commercialization, and supplying a skilled workforce that fuels regional innovation and growth.
ECONOMIC IMPACT: In October, Amkor Technology broke ground on its $7 billion, cutting-edge semiconductor packaging and test facility in Peoria. (Rendering provided by the City of Peoria)
ASM’s expansion in Scottsdale strengthens Arizona’s semiconductor ecosystem with advanced equipment manufacturing, significant capital investment and hundreds of local jobs supporting the state’s booming chip industry.
Assure provides day treatment, employment services, community integration and life skills training that empower individuals with disabilities to achieve independence and confidence.
Global technology distributor headquartered in Phoenix, Avnet empowers local and regional tech innovation by connecting manufacturers and solutions providers with supply- chain services, fueling Arizona’s electronics industry growth and reinforcing statewide tech leadership.
As one of Arizona’s largest health systems, Banner Health delivers comprehensive care through hospitals, clinics and research initiatives, improving health outcomes statewide and expanding medical access in urban and rural communities.
Arizona-headquartered accounting and advisory firm BeachFleischman supports local businesses with tax, audit and consulting expertise, strengthening financial operations and fostering growth across diverse industries statewide.
With multiple Arizona branches and community lending programs, Bell Bank supports homeownership, business banking and philanthropic initiatives while deepening its presence through local partnerships and economic engagement.
One of America’s fastest- growing cities, Buckeye fuels Arizona’s economy with residential expansion, logistics, manufacturing growth, and strategic location on key transportation corridors.
Background: Aprio Legal is a full-service Alternative Business Structure Law Firm delivering integrated legal and advisory solutions to help clients grow with confidence. Formed by the combination of Radix Law and Aprio, Aprio Legal brings together attorneys, CPAs, tax professionals and business advisors to deliver a seamless, client-first experience. Licensed under Arizona’s ABS Program, Aprio Legal is headquartered in Scottsdale and serves business and individual clients.
Goals for 2026: In 2026, Aprio Legal will continue expanding its presence across legal, accounting and wealth planning services as part of Aprio’s multidisciplinary approach to serving clients. The team plans to bring on additional attorneys and professionals to support its growing practice and strengthen coverage across litigation, employment, real estate, transactional, corporate and tax. A key focus will be deepening relationships with existing clients, providing seamless access to Aprio’s integrated platform. This approach allows entrepreneurs and business owners to make decisions with all advisors aligned, from legal and tax to wealth planning and strategic advisory, creating clarity, coordinated guidance and efficiency. Looking ahead, Aprio Legal aims to build on its model of holistic service, blending legal counsel with business insight and long-term planning to help entrepreneurs and business owners navigate growth, complexity and opportunity with confidence.
Learn more: legal.aprio.com
HonorHealth is a major nonprofit healthcare network serving the Phoenix metro with hospitals, clinics and urgent care, providing comprehensive patient care, cancer treatment and community health services as one of Arizona’s largest health systems.
Goodyear fosters economic diversification through aerospace, manufacturing and healthcare growth, while attracting businesses, boosting employment and expanding mixed- use developments that enhance community vibrancy.
Since 2010, DDAZ has invested $20 millionplus in initiatives that promote oral health education, disease prevention and food security. DDAZ also created a free directory of low-cost dental clinics across Arizona.
Since 2020, Desert Financial has grown from serving 320,000 Arizonans to 500,000, driving growth by giving back to members, community and our team. In 2026, Desert Financial will continue to amplify financial well-being for both members and employees.
Eide Bailly is a Top 20 CPA firm, bringing practical expertise in tax, audit, advisory and technology. Its local team connects you to the full strength of a national firm to help you build a stronger business.
GAME-CHANGER: In 2025, the HonorHealth Research Institute celebrated its 20th anniversary. In building for the future, one of the most promising developments is the Institute’s new Center for Translational Science. (Photo provided by HonorHealth)
E Squared combines over a decade of digital-marketing expertise with an all-women powerhouse team that’s nationally recognized for strategy, branding, ads, influencer outreach, web/ video design, photography and social engagement.
Headquartered in Scottsdale, the company is redefining behavioral health by embedding services directly into primary care, a model that aligns with industry trends toward whole-person, value-based care.
Scottsdale - based Fortitude delivers high-touch wealth management, investment advisory and financial services to high-net-worth families, coordinating tax, estate, philanthropy and legacy planning while earning industry recognition for innovative client strategies and holistic financial solutions.
Tempe - based GT Medical Technologies pioneers GammaTile® therapy, a groundbreaking surgically targeted radiation treatment for brain tumors, improving patient outcomes and earning bioscience awards while expanding adoption across top cancer centers nationwide.
Scottsdale - based HomeLight is a real estate technology platform transforming how buyers and sellers connect with agents, using data- driven matching and services to streamline transactions and elevate Arizona’s residential market experience.
One of the fastest-growing banks in Arizona, Integro Bank outperformed many larger institutions in SBA 7a lending and is No. 1 in deposits growth for Arizona-based banks.
BIOSCIENCES INNOVATOR: By integrating innovations with its portfolio of birth-tissue-derived wound coverings, BioLab Holdings is building a truly differentiated and comprehensive wound care ecosystem. (Photo provided by BioLab Holdings)
Background: BioLab Holdings was born from a deep commitment to redefine what it means to care for patients; not only those suffering from chronic wounds, but individuals across the entire continuum of care. From the beginning, BioLab Holdings has embraced a patient-first philosophy, guided by a clear mission to elevate the standard of care in wound management and beyond. At its core, BioLab Holdings is built on a culture of humble leadership and people-first values. BioLab Holdings operates according to six guiding principles: performance, collaboration, innovation, integrity, care, and impact. These values are embedded in every partnership, product, and idea, fueling the company’s growth and reinforcing its vision. With a team dedicated to advancing care through both science and empathy, BioLab Holdings remains focused on creating meaningful, lasting change in healthcare.
Acts of innovation: “BioLab Holdings is most innovative in its ability to align best-of-breed wound care products, technologies and solutions from around the world into a unified platform that delivers value to patients, providers and payors. Central to this approach is advanced diagnostics, including our collaboration with Germany-based cureVision, which integrates AI-driven
wound diagnostics with EMR systems to improve documentation accuracy and reduce administrative burden for providers. cureVision’s platform leverages machine learning and global treatment data to generate meaningful clinical insights that support better decision-making.”
Goals for 2026 and beyond: “BioLab Holdings’ goal is to deliver meaningful value to its stakeholders—patients, providers, and payors (insurance)—by improving outcomes while reducing the overall cost of care. Guided by our continuum-of-care methodology, we are developing a portfolio of best-in-class wound care products and solutions designed to help patients heal better, faster, and more completely. Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, BioLab is investing in the introduction of cutting-edge diagnostic and AI-driven solutions to the U.S. healthcare market. These innovations are intended to streamline patient care while delivering actionable insights and guidance to providers. In parallel, we are advancing new fish-collagen-based dressings and plasma-energy-driven technologies that together will form an unmatched and unprecedented wound care platform.”
Learn more: biolabholdings.com
Since its founding in 1988, Enterprise Bank & Trust has focused on guiding people to a lifetime of financial success. Enterprise empowers privately held businesses to succeed, help families secure their financial futures and invest to advance the quality of life in the communities it serves.
Enterprise is headquartered in Clayton, Missouri, and operates more than 50 branch offices in Arizona, California, Florida, Kansas, Missouri, Nevada and New Mexico. Twelve of these branches are in Arizona. Enterprise Bank & Trust provides a range of business and personal banking services and a variety of specialized banking services.
Enterprise is built on personal relationships and is dedicated to getting to know its clients and their businesses. What distinguishes Enterprise is its local decision-making and the structure to put the strength of an entire team behind each client. Enterprise also serves the state by investing in economic development initiatives and offering educational resources, like Enterprise University, the organization’s no-cost skill development program for professionals, to the wider business community.
Learn more: enterprisebank.com/arizona
Background: Grand Canyon Law Group is a premier Arizona-based criminal defense firm dedicated to helping good people accused of a crime take control of their case and protect their future. With offices across the Phoenix metro area, and servicing the entire state of Arizona, the firm represents clients in DUI, domestic violence, drug offenses, weapons charges, assault, expungements and felonylevel criminal matters. Founded on the core values of compassion, honesty and results, Grand Canyon Law Group blends aggressive legal strategy with a client-first approach. The firm is known for its high-touch service model, advanced operational systems, and commitment to transparency at every stage of representation. Backed by an experienced legal team, former prosecutors and forward-thinking leadership, the firm continues to set the standard for criminal defense in Arizona through innovation, community involvement and relentless advocacy for its clients.
Goals for 2026: “In 2026 and beyond, Grand Canyon Law Group is focused on scaling its impact through strategic expansion, advanced legal technology and elite talent development. Key initiatives include opening a new headquarters to support continued growth, expanding attorney and paralegal training academies, and implementing nextgeneration client communication and case management systems.”
(Provided
Learn more: grandcanyon.law
An electric vehicle manufacturer advancing Arizona’s EV ecosystem with its Casa Grande AMP-1 factory, Lucid is creating thousands of jobs and over $100 million in economic impact while expanding EV production infrastructure in the state.
Headquartered in Chandler, Insight is a Fortune 500 IT solutions provider, driving Arizona’s tech economy with cloud, hardware, software and digital transformation services while expanding local employment and innovation infrastructure.
One of the oldest law firms in Arizona and founded in 1937, the firm has grown extensively in the past two years, adding offices in Albuquerque, Tucson and recently it expanded into Denver.
The Kyl Center for Water Policy at ASU produces influential research and policy guidance on sustainable water management, shaping public dialogue and decision-making on Arizona’s critical water resources and long-term stewardship.
TRANSPORTATION TITAN: In 2025, Lucid Group, maker of the world’s most advanced electric vehicles, announced a landmark initiative that accelerates the path to full autonomy with NVIDIA technology. (Photo provided by Lucid Motors)
Over the past few years, the firm has achieved over $30 million in additional revenue, not by chasing volume or expanding for expansion’s sake, but by shifting the focus inward and committing to a “quality over quantity” mindset.
With a $5.5 billion facility being built in Queen Creek, LG Energy Solution leads the future eco-friendly energy industry by developing distinguished materials and next-generation batteries.
MCOR plays a crucial role in strengthening Arizona’s economy by partnering with businesses and industry to provide customized workforce training, skills development, and recruitment support that upskills employees, fills talent gaps and enhances productivity across key sectors.
NAU fosters innovation through its dedicated office, NAU Innovations, for technology transfer, strong research in areas like health and ecosystems, key engineering programs and participation in statewide initiatives.
This Phoenix- based community-focused financial institution has over 200,000 members and $3.4 billion in assets, driving local prosperity through tailored financial solutions and deep engagement in Arizona communities.
This Scottsdale -headquartered global semiconductor leader is producing power and sensing technologies for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets, supporting Arizona’s chip ecosystem and contributing to the state’s advanced manufacturing prominence.
This global consumer goods leader has invested $500 million in a new Coolidge manufacturing facility, creating more than 500 Arizona jobs and strengthening the state’s manufacturing base with fabric care product production.
INFLUENTIAL
Background: Southwest Heritage Bank is dedicated to the financial wellbeing of its entire community — from small to medium-sized businesses, to the families and individuals who call this region home. Southwest Heritage Bank provides comprehensive banking solutions, from essential online banking and bill pay to specialized services, all delivered by local experts. Whether you’re expanding operations, acquiring equipment or financing a new building, Southwest Heritage Bank’s experienced banking officers are dedicated to helping you achieve your financial goals. Southwest Heritage Bank is committed to consistently delivering responsive, tailored and expert banking services through local leadership.
Goals for 2026: “In 2026, Southwest Heritage Bank is focused on strengthening the financial future of the communities we proudly serve. Our goals center on delivering smarter, more personal banking experiences, whether that’s expanding access to digital tools that make everyday banking easier, offering flexible lending solutions for local businesses or investing in financial education that empowers our community business owners and families alike to plan confidently for tomorrow … As we continue to evolve, our values remain the same: to provide alert, assured and authentic guidance, responsive service, and innovative products that meet the real needs of the people who call our state home.”
Learn more: swhbank.com/
Background: National Bank of Arizona (NBAZ) has served Arizona communities since 1984 with a mission to empower individuals and businesses to thrive. As Arizona’s premier local bank, National Bank of Arizona combines personalized service with innovative financial solutions to meet the unique needs of our state. With 56 branches statewide, NBAZ is deeply rooted in the communities it serves, supporting local businesses, investing in communities, and fostering economic growth. National Bank of Arizona’s commitment goes beyond banking; it’s about building lasting relationships and creating opportunities for Arizonans to succeed.
Goals for 2026: “Looking ahead, National Bank of Arizona is focused on strengthening its role as the bank for Arizona communities. Our initiatives include continually expanding digital banking capabilities while maintaining the personalized service our clients value. We will continue investing in Arizona’s business owners through tailored lending solutions and resources that fuel growth and innovation. Additionally, NBAZ is committed to community engagement by volunteering and investing in organizations that benefit Arizona. Our goal is simple: to help Arizona residents and businesses thrive today and for generations to come.”
Innovative acts: “Our digital banking platforms provide reliable, convenient access to financial tools, while our personalized consultative services help ensure clients receive solutions tailored to their goals. We’ve pioneered programs that support small businesses, offering flexible financing and resources that adapt to changing market conditions. Innovation at NBAZ isn’t just about technology, it’s about creating smarter, more responsive ways to serve Arizona communities.”
Learn more: nbarizona.com
LEADING THE WAY: Mark Stebbings is the chief executive officer for National Bank of Arizona. He was appointed to this role in August 2024. (Photo provided by National Bank of Arizona)
For more than 30 years, Phillips Law Group has been one of Arizona’s most recognized personal injury firms, committed to protecting the rights of individuals and families across the state. With more than $2 billion recovered for clients and over 185,000 people helped, the firm has built its reputation on compassion, advocacy and results. From car accidents and wrongful death to trucking accidents and catastrophic injury cases, Phillips Law Group guides clients through some of life’s most challenging moments with clear communication and dedicated support. With offices statewide, a bilingual team and no upfront fees, the firm makes quality legal representation accessible to everyone. Phillips Law Group is also deeply rooted in community service through the Phillips Law Foundation, supporting nonprofits, public safety, veterans, youth programs and crisis response efforts. Driven by service and accountability, Phillips Law Group continues to stand up for injured Arizonans when they need it most.
Acts of innovation: “Phillips Law Group stands out for its innovation in client service and case management efficiency. While many firms react to cases, Phillips proactively builds systems that move them forward. The firm has one of the largest dedicated legal support teams in the state, intentionally structured to accelerate case progress, increase communication touchpoints and reduce client stress. Our approach integrates personalized service with streamlined processes so clients understand their case, feel supported and never wait for answers. Real-time updates, bilingual communication and accessible client support ensure every client receives attention and clarity from day one. Innovation at Phillips Law Group is rooted in compassion — technology, staffing and resources are designed around one goal: better experiences and faster results for injured Arizonans. By investing in people and processes rather than shortcuts, Phillips Law Group continues to lead with a client-first model that prioritizes action, accountability and meaningful outcomes.”
Jeffrey Phillips is an experienced trial lawyer and founding partner of Phillips Law Group, the founder of Phillips & Associates Law Firm, and other Phillips & Associates firms. He and his firms have represented more than 155,000 consumer clients over the past 27 years in Arizona, California, Utah and throughout the nation.
The Colibri Collective, an award- winning, Latina-led full- service marketing agency in Phoenix, elevates brands through creative, data-driven campaigns for political, nonprofit, education and government clients, driving engagement, inclusion and community -focused results.
Phoenix REALTORS® is not just the Valley’s premier REALTOR association — it has forged a reputation for innovation and changed how brokers do business.
Resolution Copper’s proposed mega mine is projected to generate up to $61 billion in economic value over 60 years, create thousands of jobs, boost tax revenues and local supply- chain spending, and support regional economic development.
Arizona-founded Sprouts Farmers Market drives economic activity with thousands of jobs, local produce sales, nutrition education programs, millions of pounds of food donated and significant community investment, reinforcing health and economic well-being statewide.
TSMC’s Phoenix “gigafab” semiconductor campus — one of the largest foreign investments in U.S. manufacturing — creates high-wage jobs, strengthens supply chains, and anchors massive regional economic and industrial growth.
Cardenas, founder and CEO of The Colibri Collective, was one of Az Business magazine’s Most Influential Women in Arizona for 2025. (Az Business file photo)
UMB supports Arizona communities with full- service commercial, small business and personal banking, local lending and wealth management, while investing in regional economic growth through volunteerism, corporate giving and tailored financial solutions for individuals and businesses.
U.S. Bank is expanding its Arizona footprint with new Phoenix-area branches, bolstering local banking access while supporting small businesses, community programs and financial inclusion through lending, volunteerism and targeted philanthropic initiatives shaping economic opportunity.
The University of Arizona drives innovation and economic growth through leading research (nearly $1 billion annually), tech commercialization, startup support, and talent pipelines that strengthen Arizona’s workforce and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Wallace, Plese + Dreher is a leading Arizona CPA and consulting firm providing accounting, tax, audit and advisory services that empower local businesses, support growth strategies and develop financial leadership across key industries statewide.
Waymo’s autonomous ride -hail service operates across more than 315 square miles of Metro Phoenix, expanding driverless mobility, advancing transportation innovation, increasing ride options, and testing autonomous freeway and delivery services that help position Arizona as a national AV hub.
Western Alliance Bank, headquartered in Phoenix, fuels Arizona’s economy by providing personalized business and community banking, supporting small- business lending, affordable housing initiatives and financial literacy programs while driving local job creation and economic development.
Background: For 50 years, University of Phoenix has been a leader in flexible education, helping working adults advance their careers in a rapidly evolving workforce. The university offers career-focused degree and certificate programs tailored to fit busy lives. All associate, bachelor’s and master’s programs open for new enrollment are fully skills-mapped — enabling students to gain and showcase careerrelevant skills in weeks, not years. Through its Career Services for Life® commitment, students and alumni receive lifetime access to career coaching, resources and tools at no added cost. The university’s workforce solutions team collaborates with employers to develop customized talent development programs aligned to in-demand skills. Additionally, research initiatives like the Career Optimism Index® and the Phoenix AI Research Group provide valuable insights on workforce trends and the responsible integration of AI in education.
Goals for 2026: Looking ahead, University of Phoenix is focused on delivering a more personalized learning experience. With connected, tech-enabled platforms built on robust data infrastructure, the university continues to integrate AI tools to enhance student learning, streamline processes and elevate support services — now expanding its focus on agentic, selfdirected learning capabilities.
Learn more: phoenix.edu/
MICHAEL GOSSIE
id you get maximum utility out of your marketing and public relations efforts in 2025? Maybe you don’t know how to answer that question.
“New Year’s is the perfect time to take a look at your marketing and PR strategy and evaluate what’s working and what’s not,” says Elaina Verhoff, owner at Elaina V. Public Relations. “Maybe it’s time to shake things up and look at new communication channels that could reach your target audience more effectively. And don’t forget to dream big.”
Setting New Year’s resolutions for marketing and public relations efforts helps businesses refocus, set measurable goals, embrace innovation, and adapt strategies to shifting audience expectations — fueling visibility, engagement and long-term growth in 2026 and beyond. It’s an opportunity to build momentum, enhance storytelling, and align outreach with evolving brand priorities and market trends. Here is some advice from Arizona-based marketing and public relations experts to help guide your marketing and public relations resolutions for 2026.
Elaina Verhoff owner Elaina V. Public Relations
Jennifer Adler McLaughlin, founder and CEO, Adler Public Relations: “In 2026, Arizona business leaders should resolve to invest in PR and brand awareness consistently, not just for big announcements or when launching something new. In today’s AI-driven world, earned media hits are more than just good press. They directly influence what shows up in ChatGPT responses and other large language models. Proactive media coverage helps shape your reputation, amplifies your community impact, builds trust and credibility. Make this the year you intentionally position yourself as a respected subject matter expert, lead with authenticity and secure the press your brand deserves.”
Kristi Dale, vice president of account service at Flutter Public Relations: “With so much AI and propaganda filling news streams these days, it’s more important than ever for brands to lean into crafting authentic messaging and building genuine connections. Great brands don’t need flash and gimmicks; consumers are aligning with companies producing real, relatable, believable content – and they’re blasting those that lead with less.”
Stacey Johnes, managing director of public relations at LAVIDGE: “Trust is at an alltime low. Business leaders must communicate with transparency, using every touchpoint as an opportunity to acknowledge concerns, explain the ‘why’ behind decisions, and deepen connection. This is not simply a ‘nice to do’ — it is how marketing earns belief, builds loyalty, and drives real business outcomes.”
Christina Kolomitz, director of public relations at The James Agency: “In 2026, business leaders should see PR pros as strategic partners, not just media matchmakers. The best results come when PR guides the bigger picture while shaping messaging, aligning teams and building trust that lasts longer than a headline. Real brand impact starts with strategy, not just stories.”
Chase Lane, CEO of LT: “With 78% of companies worldwide experimenting with AI in 2025, 2026 should be the year Arizona businesses learn to turn it into a competitive advantage. The most successful will use AI to scale and streamline marketing and PR – while relying on real people for the insights, empathy, and human perspective that truly connects.”
Beth McRae, founder, The McRae Agency: “I highly recommend that business leaders get familiar with what AI can and can’t do for their businesses. We use it liberally to give us a good starting point for assignments but don’t rely on it fully. It’s very important to have the human touch on everything we do. We’ve all heard about the situations where people in the legal field have used AI to their demise, using it to cite cases that don’t actually exist. We put our eyes on everything before it goes out into the public realm, no matter what. We have a duty to present accurate information that is not 100% AI generated.”
Robyn Patterson, founder and president, Mack Media Relations: “Make 2026 the year of authentic, communitydriven storytelling. Real connection is what sets Arizona brands apart. Share how your business supports community initiatives, addresses local challenges, and contributes to growth. In a world of AI noise, authenticity builds trust, loyalty, and long-lasting brand equity that no algorithm can replicate.”
Tim Riester, founder and CEO of Riester: “Be bold. Be creative. With a dramatic increase in AI usage predicted for 2026, marketing will become even more homogeneous. Business leaders who are bold and uniquely creative with their marketing and public relations will be the most successful. In fact, creativity generates four times the amount of revenue versus a conservative marketing approach.”
Andrea Aker, CEO and president of Aker Ink: “AI is rewriting the rules of marketing. Visibility within generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini is becoming increasingly paramount for new awareness, leads and thought leadership. In 2026, leaders should prioritize initiatives that boost AI visibility, namely through the integration of digital marketing, content and traditional public relations strategies.”
Charlotte Shaff, owner of The Media Push: “Creativity and authenticity are more crucial than ever in PR. Currently, we are seeing media opportunities diminish and AI-generated content is on the rise. For 2026, I recommend clients focus on strengthening, deepening and nurturing relationships with audiences, in the community and with local media, rather than pursuing every media outlet and social media platform in the marketplace. Thought leadership and consistency will help build lasting credibility and serve brands and businesses well in the year ahead.”
By MICHAEL GOSSIE
If you’re looking for a night out in Downtown Phoenix that blends serious culinary chops with playful flair, Wren & Wolf hits the mark — hard.
From the moment you step inside, the sleek design, warm wood tones and adventurous taxidermy give off a modernhunting-lodge-meets-speakeasy vibe that feels luxe without being pretentious.
In the heart of Downtown Phoenix’s business district, Wren & Wolf is the power-dining hotspot where deals get inked and style is always on the menu.
Start with cocktails delivered in style, then settle in for entrees that consistently
steal the spotlight. Their 16-oz Beef Wellington for two is a showstopper — a perfectly cooked tenderloin wrapped in prosciutto and mushroom duxelles, encased in flaky puff pastry, finished tableside and served with whipped potatoes and veal demi-glace. It’s indulgent, impressive and impossible to forget.
For a richer pasta experience, the Wild Boar Bolognese packs deep flavor with slow -braised wild boar, San Marzano tomato sauce and a hit of horseradish ricotta on top. Comforting, bold and worth every bite.
Seafood lovers shouldn’t miss the Lobster Tagliatelle, which combines half a Maine
DYNAMIC DINING: A showstopping masterpiece, Wren & Wolf’s Beef Wellington is crafted to perfection with tender beef, rich duxelles and a golden, flaky crust. Indulge in this timeless classic, elevated with bold flavors and expert technique. (Photo provided by Wren & Wolf)
lobster, Alaskan King Crab stuffing, chorizo, piquillo peppers and garlic- white wine sauce for a pasta dish that’s as decadent as it is crave- worthy.
And for a bit of flame-kissed drama, the Japanese- style hibachi grilled Wagyu brings sizzling tableside theatrics with top- tier beef seared over binchō- tan charcoal — perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Wren & Wolf’s beverage program is every bit as bold and luxurious as its cuisine. The cocktail menu brims with inventive concoctions — from smoked old fashioneds to floral-forward gin creations — each served with dramatic flair and impeccable balance. Wine lovers will revel in a carefully curated list featuring global vintages and boutique labels, with standout selections from Napa, Bordeaux and Tuscany that pair effortlessly with the restaurant’s rich dishes like Beef Wellington and Wild Boar Bolognese. Whether you’re in the mood for a celebratory glass of Champagne or a silky red to elevate your Lobster Tagliatelle, Wren & Wolf’s bar delivers a next-level experience.
Ultimately, Wren & Wolf delivers an unforgettable combo: Elegant cocktails, dramatic ambiance and dishes that feel like a little celebration of flavor and flair. Whether it’s a romantic date night, power lunch, pre- show dinner, business dinner or a splurge for friends, this spot consistently reminds you why Downtown Phoenix dining is exciting again.
Equal parts edgy and elegant, it’s the place to see and be seen.
Wren & Wolf
Location: 2 N. Central Ave., #101, Phoenix Hours: Wren & Wolf serves breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner
Learn more: wrenandwolf.com
By AMY LINDSEY
Richard Blais, a top-level chef known for bold culinary imagination, delivers something truly exciting with Tiki Taka — an eclectic fusion of Japan and Spain. Nestled inside the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale, the restaurant offers an unforgettable dining experience where two dynamic food cultures collide in the most thrilling way.
From the moment you walk in, the energy hints at the journey ahead: colorful flavors, inventive plates and a menu crafted with equal passion for both traditions. Start with a standout cocktail — perhaps the tableside sangria, a curated sake flight, or the refreshing spirit-free Yuzu Bloom — to set the tone.
The Spanish tapas-inspired dishes make
an immediate impression. Pork empanadas arrive rich, warm and deeply satisfying. The tomatillo toast adds a bright, zesty note, and the silky Iberico ham is as luxurious as ever. The charcoal-grilled skewers are another highlight: from the juicy New York strip to the tender pork belly and surprisingly delicate chicken oysters, each bite showcases impressive technique and smoky depth.
On the Japanese side, the flavors become bolder and even more playful. The crispy fried rice with spicy tuna is one of those rare dishes that lingers in your memory long after the last bite. The salmon tostadas — fresh, vibrant and beautifully composed — perfectly capture Tiki Taka’s creative spirit.
Just when you think the experience has peaked, dessert arrives. Whether you choose the delicate Sweet Coconut Matcha or the indulgent Basque-style cheesecake, you’re guaranteed a sweet finish that matches the meal’s high energy and elegance.
Tiki Taka isn’t just dinner — it’s a delicious collision of cultures brought together with confidence and creativity. Bold, modern, and full of surprises, it’s a must-visit for anyone in search of something truly unique
Tiki Taka
Location: Within the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale at 7500 E. Doubletree Ranch Rd., Scottsdale Don’t miss: The charcoal-grilled skewers, salmon tostadas and Basque-style cheesecake. Learn more: tikitakascottsdale.com
Explore how GPEC is guiding Greater Phoenix toward becoming a global innovation hub (Image licensed from ©Adobe Stock)
By CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
For nearly three decades, Christine Mackay’s dedication to economic development has been integral to the transformation of Arizona’s business ecosystem.
In her 11 years at the City of Phoenix, Mackay and her department facilitated the creation of over 100,000 high-value jobs and saw the average wage of those jobs increase from over $30,000 in 2014 to more than $86,000 in 2024.
Now, she has taken the reins as CEO and president of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council.
Az Business: What drew you to the position of CEO and president of GPEC?
Christine Mackay: I have been in this role for 28 years — almost 17 years with Chandler and 11 years with Phoenix. Joining GPEC was an opportunity to work with my colleagues in economic development across the entire region. I went from 71 square miles in Chandler to 517 square miles in Phoenix. And now when you look at Greater Phoenix, it’s about 14,000 square miles. This is a chance to be helpful to the region’s collective 22 cities and towns, and Maricopa and Pinal counties, too.
AB: What do you bring to the organization?
CM: In my previous roles at Chandler and Phoenix, I took projects all the way through from their inception, through development,
then worked with the companies once they were up and running. This process includes working through community meetings and zoning hearings where the rubber meets the pavement.
As new companies are coming to Greater Phoenix and looking for that expertise, my deep experience combined with the regional scope of GPEC allows our market to stay competitive when it comes to site selection to support the expansion of global firms and key industries
AB: To you and GPEC, what is the most pressing issue when it comes to the market’s economic future?
CM: There are a couple of things that come to mind. People often ask me, ‘What keeps you up at night?’ I would say infrastructure. There’s this tale of two
regions. You have cities that were built in the late 1800s and early 1900s that now need 100-year-old water and sewer lines replaced in an area that has never seen a shovel. Looking at that dichotomy — where the region makes its investments in bringing that public infrastructure forward — is always a challenge that I think is going to become more and more challenging.
The other side is our workforce and making sure that we are in alignment with our educational institutions; that we are ensuring that all our students know their capabilities and all the options available to them as they move forward in their working careers.
But we must also take into consideration the retention of our college graduates and attracting new talent to Greater Phoenix. We need to ensure that we’re bringing in the workforce who can take the jobs that we’re creating.
AB: GPEC collaborates with cities in the Valley to support each other. That must be a sense of pride.
CM: Greater Phoenix is this conglomerate of 22 cities and two counties that we lovingly call ‘coopetition.’ Projects consistently look at multiple cities across the market, and the cities are not competing, but working so closely with each other. We help each other. For example, when I was in Phoenix as the economic development director, my job was to win the project. After my interview,
DRIVER: Christine Mackay, president and CEO of GPEC, is a transformative leader in economic development, bringing decades of experience and a bold regional vision to drive innovation, collaboration, and highwage job growth across Greater Phoenix.
(Photo provided by GPEC)
if I knew I wasn’t going to win it, I would call one of my colleagues who I knew they were going to go next and say, ‘Let me tell you everything I learned in this meeting.’
That’s the way we work together. We’re the first ones to send each other a note or a text when one gets a project, or congratulate each other on something that’s happened, or say, ‘I’m so sorry that this happened. We know you will get them next time.’
It’s really interesting because we have other regions that meet with us and figure out what we do, and other regions and companies are interviewing here. The first thing they notice is how collaborative we are and how much we all work together. They say, ‘We don’t see this in other places.’
AB: What are some of the development trends that you see for the next couple of years?
CM: I think that we will see steady growth in key industries. Advanced manufacturing is really going to continue in a robust fashion. Greater Phoenix is a really advanced industry capital. I think you’re going to see a number of companies adding to our Advanced Air Mobility sectors. Drone delivery and drone technologies are moving forward, and aerospace and defense innovations. We’re going to continue to see it grow even more robustly on the defense side, in addition to one of our greatest growth sectors, the biosciences and healthcare.
What it is: The Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC), globally recognized as a top economic development organization, works to attract and grow quality businesses and advocate for the competitiveness of Greater Phoenix. A data-driven organization, GPEC works with 22 member communities, Maricopa and Pinal counties, and more than 220 private investors to accomplish its mission and serve as a strategic partner to companies across the world as they expand or relocate to Greater Phoenix.
During the last 36 years, GPEC has fueled the regional economy, racking up some impressive stats along the way:
• More than 1,090 GPEC-assisted locates
• More than 197,000 high-quality jobs
• More than $76.5 billion in capital investment
• In fiscal year 2025, 54 companies located or expanded in Greater Phoenix, drawn by the region’s diverse ecosystem and pro-business climate. The interactive locate map provides a detailed view of these businesses now established in the region.
Learn more: gpec.org
Arizona transforms from an underestimated player into a top bioscience and innovation hub through bold collaboration, strategic investment and a globally connected approach driven by visionary leadership
By CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
When Arizona’s Bioscience Roadmap was introduced in 2002, other markets were skeptical about the state’s contribution.
Officials in Boston, Atlanta and Washington, D.C., and others said, “Oh, aren’t you just cute? We have 200 years on you,” recalls Christine Mackay, president and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council.
“In true Arizona fashion,” Mackay adds, “We did what we said we would do. We worked together. We worked hard. We worked with our universities.
“We went from being a ‘nobody on the block’ to now. We are known as a top 20 Life Sciences market. We’re in the top five emerging Life Sciences markets. We’re No. 1 in bioscience, finance, engineering and job growth.”
The key is collaboration
Mackay and her Greater Phoenix Economic Council team steer municipalities toward becoming a global innovation hub through infrastructure, workforce development and business attraction strategies.
The key to the area’s success is collaboration. Mackey agrees.
“Greater Phoenix is this conglomerate of 22 cities and two counties that we lovingly call ‘coopetition.’ Projects consistently look
at multiple cities across the market, and the cities are not competing, but working so closely with each other. We help each other.”
During Mackay’s tenure as the City of Phoenix’s economic development director, her job was to win projects. If it wasn’t the right fit, Mackay referred the project’s staff to another municipality.
“After my interview, if I knew I wasn’t going to win it, I would call one of my colleagues that I knew they were going to go next and say, ‘Let me tell you everything I learned in this meeting,’” Mackay says.
“That’s the way we work together. We’re the first ones to send each other a note or a text when one gets a project, or congratulate each other on something that’s happened, or say, ‘I’m so sorry that this
happened. We know you will get them next time.’”
Mackay says the country’s aging population will keep researchers and talent busy.
“It’s our hospitals that have the doctors who are advancing the research, testing the research and the technology that is validating that research,” she says.
That work has led to a wearable technology center products that require chips and sensors created by scientists and thinktanks. Studies also include research on cancer vaccinations, dementia, cell and gene therapy and medical devices.
Bioscience boom
“The new Biosciences Roadmap came out last year from The Flinn Foundation,”
she says. “It tells us which path to follow. I really think our greatest growth is going to be in biosciences and healthcare.”
GPEC works closely with other stakeholders and elected leaders. More importantly, she says meeting with universities helps GPEC identify its strong suits.
“That’s not what we focus on,” she says. “We focus on those specific sectors that we can truly excel at and really be known as that global innovation hub.”
GPEC brings the cities/towns with universities, researchers, and the existing company side.
“Then we add our universities and our community colleges and our high schools that are on the workforce side,” she explains.
“We’re getting that workforce ready and trained. When you look at some of the most innovative training programs that we’ve created over the last two years, it is in semiconductor fab technician training.”
Mackay says GPEC is working with drone companies, too.
“The greatest success that they have with their workforce is those students who are coming out of robotics programs.
“Now we marry those companies and the high schools that have the robotics programs and making those connections. GPEC’s role is really a connector and a convener, and identifying those areas where we are going to excel.”
One of Mackay’s “absolute favorite subjects” is GPEC’s international collaborations.
“The new Biosciences Roadmap came out last year from The Flinn Foundation. It tells us which path to follow. I really think our greatest growth is going to be in biosciences and healthcare.
— Christine Mackay, president and CEO Greater Phoenix Economic Council
“When you look back, Greater Phoenix was not known as an ‘international hub.’ It would never be a region that would come up 20 years ago when you were talking about the international hubs inside the United States, she says.”
Others look toward cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles.
“That has changed so dramatically over the last five years. We went from having 2% of our book of business from international companies to, if you amortize the last five years, 24% of our book of business comes out of internationally related companies.
Transforming a reputation
Greater Phoenix’s reputation went from, “‘We don’t even know who you are, to ‘international darling’ with companies that we’re working with across the globe,” Mackay says. “That is working with our consular core. It is working with the ambassadors from regions and countries that we are aligned with,
either technologies or businesses or raw materials that we share back and forth.
“Everybody always likes to say that China is Arizona’s No. 1 trading partner — and that’s true. But if you combine the USMCA and combine Canada and Mexico together, that’s our largest trading partner.”
Automobiles are also considered.
“That automobile between the Maquiladoras doors and our companies here in Arizona, in Greater Phoenix, that car is going to go back and forth across the border six times before it hits the car lot and ready to be sold,” Mackay says.
“Now, let’s say that cars manufactured in Asia, there’s not going to be that economic impact on Arizona, because it’s that economic impact is going back and forth between those regions. The car just comes here to be sold. When you look at GPEC’s role in creating that global economy, we work diligently with those decision makers, those thought leaders.”
Mackay also travels to introduce Greater Phoenix, so the cities and towns can brag about the collaborations. Those international partnerships include the city’s Sister Cities partnerships with Taipei, Taiwan.
“The team that recruited and works with TSMC, their supply chain, and bringing, workforce here, and then attracting new restaurants and retailers and others.”
The city uses the 11 Sister Cities — such as Prague; Hermosillo, Mexico; and Catania, Italy — to drive international economic development. Similarly, Catania has a strong semiconductor segment, she adds.
“We did that because they have incredible boards with direct connections into companies in those countries,” she says.
“Sister Cities breaks down barriers between our cities to be able to allow dialog to happen, to allow cross border connections and learn from each other best practices. People underestimate the power of the International Sister Cities organization.”
By CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
The Greater Phoenix area — fueled by ambitious public-private partnerships and a spirit of entrepreneurial innovation — has become one of the fastest-growing hubs for venture-backed startups, cutting-edge research and university-driven tech transfer in the nation.
Historically associated with the word innovation, both Arizona State University (ASU) and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) have led the charge in transforming the region’s economy. GPEC has played a key role in ensuring that early-stage, venture-backed, and universityaffiliated innovations not only find a home in Greater Phoenix — but scale here successfully.
“GPEC acts as a catalyst and connector to help early-stage, venture-backed and university-affiliated innovations scale in Greater Phoenix,” says Mark Paratore, vice president of business development at GPEC, where he focuses on growing the
technology sector and increasing venture capital activity across the region.
Creating connections, eliminating friction
GPEC’s mission is centered around removing barriers and accelerating access.
The nonprofit focuses on eliminating friction in the connection process, making it easier for founders to tap into talent pipelines, secure funding, connect with strategic partners and engage the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem in meaningful ways.
The elements of GPEC’s support model include:
• Market navigation and soft-landing support
HEALTHCARE OF THE FUTURE:
From aging populations to emerging technologies and rising pressure on care systems, today’s physicians must navigate a complex, rapidly evolving landscape. The John Shufeldt School of Medicine and Medical Engineering at ASU was built to meet that challenge — to prepare a different kind of physician who blends clinical expertise with fluency in AI and engineering, empathy, systems thinking and the ability to innovate solutions that meet this pivotal moment. (Rendering provided by ASU)
INNOVATOR: John Shufeldt, an emergency medicine physician, health entrepreneur and ASU alum, gave the university a nine-figure gift in support of the new School of Medicine and Medical Engineering, which will now bear his name.
pairs founders with critical regional assets — from technical and engineering talent to strategic industry partners, venture networks and applied research resources. This “connect-and-catalyze” approach helps companies thrive in Greater Phoenix from day one.
Additionally, GPEC offers soft-landing support to companies entering the Arizona market. This includes guidance across market navigation, workforce solutions, real estate site selection, and brand visibility. One unique program, the Arizona International Soft Land Experience (AISLE) — run in partnership with ASU — specifically assists international startups in launching U.S. headquarters in Greater Phoenix.
Center has supported more than 30 companies by helping them secure matching grants to develop, test and validate wearable and medical technologies.
Standout success stories include:
• CenSyn, which developed a handheld EEG device for brain health monitoring
• MyACTome, a fall prediction/ prevention technology that was later acquired by HOPCo
• HydraWav, which uses Polar WaterResonance technology to reduce pain and inflammation
These innovations, rooted in Greater Phoenix, are now making waves far beyond the region.
• Talent and workforce development connections
• Integration into research and innovation ecosystems
• Access to capital, community and pilot opportunities through holistic concierge support
GPEC has already played a pivotal role in the growth of several promising earlystage and scaling companies, including MiiHealth, Bonus Homes, OnePointOne, Loloft, Unlimited Tomorrow and Swarmbotics.
To support these companies, GPEC
“Through this integrated model, founders are better enabled to plug in quickly, validate technologies and grow,” Paratore says.
One of GPEC’s flagship initiatives is the WearTech Applied Research Center, managed by the Partnership for Economic Innovation (PEI). GPEC works in close collaboration with PEI and other regional partners, including utility providers APS and SRP, ASU, the Helios Education Foundation and Maricopa County Community Colleges.
Since its launch in 2019, the WearTech
“Innovative research emerging from universities in Greater Phoenix plays a key role in why venture-backed enterprises are choosing this market,” Paratore explains.
One notable example is Cognite, a Norwegian artificial intelligence (AI) unicorn, which recently relocated its global headquarters to Tempe — citing ASU’s innovation ecosystem as a major draw.
ASU’s fast-paced approach to tech transfer, cross-institutional collaboration and regional infrastructure improvements has made the university a national leader in research commercialization. Among its notable partnerships is the collaboration
ATTRACTING INNOVATION: Cognite CEO Girish Rishi and Gov. Katie Hobbs at Cognite’s official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Cognite’s new global headquarters in Tempe. (Photo provided by Cognite)
with Idealab Arizona, a tech incubator that works with ASU to:
• Commercialize university intellectual property
• Accelerate startup formation
• Create high-wage jobs
• Keep growing companies rooted in Arizona
ASU’s contributions also power initiatives like AISLE, which has welcomed dozens of international startups with complimentary office space, business services and access to influential local networks.
Building the venture capital infrastructure
Just a few years ago, “venture capital” was barely part of the conversation in Arizona’s business community. That has changed dramatically.
“When we launched our first fund, no one was really talking about venture capital in Arizona,” says Mike Shufeldt, general
partner at Xcellerant Ventures, which backs early-stage startups in healthtech, medtech and biotech.
Shufeldt credits the region’s rapid shift to a confluence of partners — including ASU and the Mayo Clinic — who have helped create an environment where innovation can thrive.
Xcellerant’s founder, Dr. John Shufeldt, also donated a nine-figure gift to ASU to launch its School of Medicine and Medical Engineering—an institution that reimagines medical education through a tech-forward lens.
Students will graduate with a dual degree—an MD and a Master of Science in Medical Engineering — poised to become “physician-entrepreneurs” who drive healthcare innovation from the inside out.
Jetstream, AI and the next wave
Xcellerant Ventures recently launched the Jetstream Venture Fund, a bold new fund
that focuses on:
• Leveraging AI to combat physician burnout
• Democratizing access to venture capital through a unique retail investment model
“Through Jetstream, we’re opening the doors to early innovation,” says Shufeldt, who also serves as portfolio manager for the fund. “These developments are solidifying Phoenix’s position as an emerging venture capital and innovation hub.”
Shufeldt notes that ASU’s early adoption of online education and tech-driven pedagogy has been a game-changer— and serves as a foundation for how the university approaches business and medical education alike.
regional rise that’s just beginning
Taken together, these initiatives — GPEC’s hands-on business development, ASU’s research engine, venture capital growth and public-private collaboration —
paint a picture of a region that has not only recovered from economic downturns but is actively shaping the future of innovation.
Whether through wearable tech, medical engineering, AI-powered startups, or international company landings, Greater Phoenix has positioned itself as a force to be reckoned with.
And according to leaders like Paratore and Shufeldt, this is just the beginning.
By CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI
The Greater Phoenix’s tech-focused business plan “lost its way” in the ’90s and early 2000s.
The ship has since righted and these international and domestic partnerships have been invaluable.
“The tech industry has driven Arizona’s economy since the 1940s,” says Christine Mackay, Greater Phoenix Economic Council president and CEO .
“The feds wooed the tech industry back to the state after the industrial mandate was lifted. The ‘industrial mandate’ said no sensitive assets could ever be on a coast so they couldn’t be bombed like they were in Pearl Harbor.”
In that same decade, a federal delegation met with and brought to Arizona a “little startup” called Galvin Electronics. That morphed into Motorola, which was the state’s largest employer.
Similarly, a farmer’s daughter led a chamber of commerce that approached a “little startup” about relocating to Arizona: a 3-year-old company called Intel.
The challenges resurfaced during the Great Recession of late 2007 to mid 2009, and the state lost 50% of its assessed valuations almost overnight.
“We were never a group to take a good ‘recession’ and let it go to waste,” Mackay quips. “We really used that opportunity to
restructure and reframe the economy in Greater Phoenix.”
Coming out of the Great Recession, the economic development community, the business community and elected officials worked diligently to ensure it would not happen again, she said.
It paid off.
The Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity recently released job projections for the state.
Its transition from post-recession surge (2.5% annual growth) to sustainable expansion (1.2% through 2034) reveals
LG Energy Solution is building a $5.5 billion stand-alone facility in Queen Creek. Hiring is already underway ahead of the company’s 2026 production goal. (Rendering provided by LG Energy Solution)
a maturing economy that will continue outperforming the nation while adding 454,167 jobs by 2034, according to OEO’s report.
This forecast shows the sectors that will drive growth, which face disruption, and how the state’s economic footprint nationally is expected to expand from 1.8% to 2.3% by 2034.
“We really spent the recession putting programs together that made us competitive on a national scale,” Mackay says. “We have really created this economy that is thriving. And I do believe that Greater Phoenix is going to be the one of the bright spots over the next few years as
TSMC’s investment in Arizona has delivered a massive economic jolt — creating thousands of high-wage manufacturing jobs and sparking a broader wave of supplier, construction, and service-sector growth across the region. The ripple effects from its facility extend well beyond semiconductors, helping establish Greater Phoenix as a national hub for advanced manufacturing and tech-driven economic development. (Image licensed from ©Adobe Stock)
things modify and happen.”
Mackay said GPEC will continue to move along as it has for the last five years, and bring “new, great, advanced industry companies, into Greater Phoenix.”
Thomas Maynard, GPEC’s senior vice president, business development, is “super excited about the future. There are a few things that we’re really focused on.”
The region’s advanced manufacturing boom — specifically in the semiconductor industry — is the priority, Maynard says.
“Not only that, but we have battery space with LG Energy Solution down in Queen Creek. That should be the gift that keeps on giving, in terms of new supply chain companies that are looking to grow and expand.”
He and his team are encouraged by the bio and life sciences industry, which continues to grow as the sector looks to reshore and onshore back into North America.
“Greater Phoenix has a really, really unique story to tell on that end,” Maynard says.
“That’s what keeps us excited. More broadly, not just semiconductor or battery space, but just more of these advanced manufacturing and users that are moving here. It seems like people are wanting to
build more in the United States. They’re trying to figure out where in the United States they want to do that.”
Greater Phoenix is now a major contender, he continues.
“We’re excited to continue that trend, and hopefully we can be a resource for these folks going forward,” Maynard says.
GPEC’s staff and stakeholders are excited about Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), Intel and LG. “They get all the big headlines — and rightfully so — because those are the major, major investments,” he says.
Mainstream corporations like Dutch Bros are also making waves.
“If you’re driving along the [Loop] 202, you can see their headquarters right there in the city of Tempe,” Maynard says.
Growing nationwide, Dutch Bros found Greater Phoenix was a fit for its headquarters.
“We’re really excited and proud about that one,” Maynard says.
Not all the expanding corporations have brand-name recognition, however. “Many complete industry ecosystems by making electrical components that go into the utility grid, or, the batteries, energy storage
ECONOMIC ENGINE: A drone photo shows Intel’s new Fab 52 in Chandler in September 2025. Fab 52 is Intel’s fifth high-volume fab at its Ocotillo campus. This facility will produce the most advanced logic chips in the U.S. and is part of the more than $100 billion Intel is investing to expand its domestic operations. Intel Corp. (Photo provided by Intel)
systems and containers that help grow our economy. They’re also making these components in our market. That is what’s really exciting.”
Mackay and Maynard say Sister Cities International plays a significant role.
“Phoenix has really cornered the market for its Sister City program,” Maynard says.
“They’re very impactful. They use it, not only to have those diplomatic, relationship building activities, but to enhance business attraction efforts.
“I know the other cities, other than Phoenix, are looking toward their Sister City relationships to see how they can use that not only for diplomatic ties between those two markets, but to build the business connection. So yeah, it’s great. Greater Phoenix is on the map — whether we like it or not — from an international perspective.”
Californians, here they come
About 15% to 20% of the state’s business comes from California companies looking
to relocate and are drawn to the market’s cost, location and infrastructure.
“Silicon Valley is still the main hub for semiconductor headquarters and R&D,” Maynard says.
“I would make the argument that Arizona, specifically the Greater Phoenix area, is definitely the hub for the manufacturing part of the process, of the semiconductor process, at least in the United States.
“We do recruit, and have worked with California-based semiconductor companies that have their headquarters, or major operational hub, in Silicon Valley, but need to build a manufacturing facility where there is more room. They’re looking at markets like Greater Phoenix.”
Maynard says foreign direct investment is poured into the United States across the board.
“California is our No. 1 market from an FDI perspective, which is pretty interesting when you consider that the current relationship between the United States and
Canada and the rhetoric that’s happening at the federal level. I think that just proves the United States is still a great market from a consumer perspective. There are a lot of Canadians who live here in Arizona, so we’re continuing to build that bridge and that relationship between us in Canada.”
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Phoenix’s 2026 residential real estate sector is entering a new era of stability, yet its future hinges on how growth, affordability and consumer confidence collide
By LUX BUTLER
As Phoenix enters 2026, the housing market is predicted to continue to recover from the whiplash cycles of the early 2020s. Closed sales have risen from their postpandemic lows, mortgage rates have stabilized enough for buyers to negotiate, and the Valley’s long-stagnant inventory is beginning, slowly, to shift.
Behind the Valley’s stabilizing sales and moderating prices is a regional economy that continues to grow faster than the nation’s. Workforce and migration patterns are being influenced by Phoenix’s transformation into a semiconductor, healthcare and advanced manufacturing hub. At the same time, buyers and sellers
are still adjusting to higher borrowing costs, inflation pressures and a tightening consumer mindset.
No longer is the housing market too hot or in correction, it’s recalibrating. The big question, as experts see it, isn’t whether Phoenix will grow. It’s how that growth will interact with affordability constraints,
NEW ERA: Phoenix’s 2026 housing market is entering a new era of stability — driven by a booming high-wage economy and steady migration — yet its future hinges on how growth, affordability, and consumer confidence collide in the years ahead. (Photo licensed from Adobe Stock)
limited supply and consumers who still aren’t sure what to believe about the economy.
For Tina Tamboer, senior housing analyst with the Cromford Report, the past 18 to 24 months hasn’t been a downturn. It’s a normalization.
“It’s not the kind of buyer’s market we saw in 2008,” Tamboer says at the Phoenix REALTORS 2026 real estate market forecasting event.
Tamboer tracks the Valley’s demand-tosupply index, where 100 represents balance. Above 110 signals a seller’s market; below 90, leverage tilts toward buyers. As the new year begins, the index sits around 80, a level she describes as “one of the best buyer markets in a very long time.”
The underlying reason isn’t excess inventory like it has been in the past.
“It is not demand. Demand is actually kind of flat, slightly rising,” she explains. “It’s the supply.”
Nationally, 80% of homeowners hold a mortgage rate below 5%, a structural headwind against listings returning to prepandemic norms.
Still, market activity has improved recently. Mortgage rates, which spiked past 7% in 2023, have held in the low 6% range long enough to rebuild buyer confidence. Tamboer notes that stability matters far more than rate drops.
“It’s not when rates are actually dropping that you see an improvement in buyer demand,” Tamboer says.”It’s when they stabilize, and stability is our friend.”
Sales have followed suit. Closed transactions have risen from their 2023 trough and pending sales through 2025 moved closer to seasonal norms. Even with these positive factors, buyers still remain wary and cautious.
Segments under $1 million have softened
roughly 2%-3%, while certain mid-tier neighborhoods remain down 10%-15% from their pandemic peaks. Condos have struggled where single-family homes now offer more space for similar prices. The luxury segment, which Tamboer notes is now tied more to the stock market than mortgage rates, continues to buoy median sales prices.
And then there’s the return of concessions, a hallmark of the Valley’s new bargaining power dynamic. More than half of transactions between $200,000 and $600,000 include concessions and builders have extended buydowns and closing-cost incentives longer than many expected.
Phoenix’s
Housing, however, is only one slice of Phoenix’s larger economic pie. The region’s ability to avoid a deeper slide during the rate shock of the mid-2020s is tied directly to the strength of its underlying job engines.
For Christine Mackay, president and CEO of Greater Phoenix Economic Council, the story begins more than a decade ago.
“It really was a region that was built on innovation and technology.” she says. “As we moved into the ‘90’s and the early 2000s I would argue we really lost our way.”
Today, the technology and innovation sector of Arizona’s economy is thriving and rapidly expanding.
TSMC’s north Phoenix campus, along with its orbit of semiconductor suppliers, continues to expand hiring in engineering, operations and materials science. Intel’s multibillion-dollar investment in Chandler fuels one of the Valley’s most enduring advanced manufacturing corridors. LG Energy’s facility in Queen Creek is emerging as another gravitational hub for high-wage employment.
Biosciences and healthcare are rising just
as quickly. “Mayo just announced another $1.9 billion new capital investment,” Mackay says. “Downtown Phoenix is far different than it was in 2010, now acting as that magnet.”
Sectors like engineering, healthcare and supply chain technology don’t just bring jobs. They bring high-income jobs. For the housing market, that distinction matters. It’s not just job growth, it’s wage growth. These companies are bringing the kinds of salaries that support homeownership.
Migration patterns reinforce the trend with Phoenix continuing to draw young, skilled workers from California, Washington, the Midwest and more recently, New York. Much of the region’s growth, now surpassing 5.2 million residents, is concentrated in Pinal County and the West Valley, where land is more available and development pipelines stay active.
“Our workforce is one of the youngest in the country,” Mackay notes. “We’re retaining our college graduates and we’re attracting highly skilled workers.”
This economic momentum provides a backstop against major housing corrections. As Tamboer puts it: “This time around, as opposed to 2004, we are not looking at a surplus of homes, but we are not necessarily looking at a shortage either.”
The biggest drivers of Phoenix’s 2026 housing landscape aren’t flashy, they’re structural.
The lock-in effect remains dominant.
With most homeowners sitting on rates far below what’s available today, listings remain constrained, even as some sellers re-enter the market.
Construction limitations persist. Labor shortages, higher financing costs, and zoning bottlenecks mean single-family permits remain far below the runaway building of the 2000s. The result is a steady supply deficit that will shape pricing for years.
On the consumer side, however, morale continues to be fragile.
“Consumer confidence is still down. People are scared to make big decisions,” says James Dwiggins, co-CEO of NextHome, Inc. and Rayse, Inc.. “The fundamentals look better than the headlines, but people don’t feel that way. And when consumers are nervous, they hold back.”
Dwiggins notes that inflation and tariffs continue to erode household purchasing power. “It’s not just rates. Everything costs more, groceries, gas, household goods,” he says. “When you feel squeezed every month, even if you technically can buy a home, you don’t want to stretch.”
Together, these forces define a 2026 market where supply remains tight, demand remains uneven, and affordability remains the central question.
If Phoenix’s long-term trajectory looks strong, the short-term path still has variables.
Tamboer points to interest-rate changes
as a key short term influence. “By the time you’ve hit the bottom of prices, it’s already gone,” she says. “The buyers who recognize that usually win.”
Dwiggins highlights economic uncertainty, business investment slowdowns, and consumer sentiment as risks that could shape buyer behavior well into 2026. “If the national economy slows down or consumers get more anxious, even strong markets like Phoenix will feel it,” he says.
The luxury segment remains especially sensitive to stock market swings. A sudden pullback could cool high-end demand and drag median prices down, even if the broader market remains stable.
Even in less optimistic scenarios, however, experts see little evidence of a steep decline.
As 2026 begins, Phoenix stands at a transition point. The chaos of the early-2020s housing cycle has subsided. Economic expansion continues to reshape the region’s job base. Migration flows remain strong. After years of frustration, buyers finally have some room to negotiate. Whether 2026 turns into a prosperous year or one of prolonged caution will depend on factors beyond the Valley itself: global manufacturing demand, interest-rate policy, consumer sentiment, and the speed of wage growth.
Phoenix is no longer the boom-and-bust housing story it once was. The region is reinventing itself. The old Phoenix is gone. And the new one is just getting started.
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Arizona’s mining industry is navigating one of the nation’s longest droughts by adopting new technologies, securing long-term water supplies and building collaborative partnerships
By ERIN THORBURN
Concerns about water shortages are often questioned in connection with Arizona mining. But, even with the Grand Canyon State under the Governor’s Drought Emergency Declaration and Arizona Drought Monitoring Technical Committee (DMTC) Drought Declaration, the reality of how much water is utilized in mining might come as a surprise. New approaches, practices and technological advancements have changed the relationship between water and mining, as have those with federal, Tribal and municipal water partners.
Arizona hasn’t experienced drought relief for more than two decades. Not only is the 25-year-plus drought one of the longest in the state’s history, but the Arizona Department of Water Resources (ADWR) reports that September 2020 to August 2025 mark the sixth hottest and seventh driest period on record.
So, are water allocation concerns in mining operations warranted? Sure, but just as much as the scrutiny over how water is distributed and shared among all other state users.
“The water usage by the mines is not an
PRECIOUS RESOURCES: Arizona is in the middle of one of the state’s longest droughts, causing concerns over water availability. Les Presmyk, Arizona State Mine Inspector, says that mining operations require water, but the industry’s overall needs are small compared to other users. According to the Arizona Department of Water Resources, 15% of the state’s water resources are allocated for commercial, industrial and insitutional purposes, which mining falls under. (Image licensed from ©Adobe Stock)
insignificant amount,” says Les Presmyk, Arizona State Mine Inspector, “but in the grand scheme of things, the [industry] is one of the [smaller] users.”
Mining’s water footprint
If water usage is observed as an inverted pyramid, ADWR puts irrigated agriculture at the top as the largest user of water in Arizona, consuming an estimated 74% of the available water supply. Next is municipal water use at 20%, with 70% of that portion going to residential use. At the tip of the upside-down triangle, an
estimated 15% of Arizona’s water supply is used for commercial, industrial and institutional purposes.
ADWR classifies metal mines within commercial, industrial and institutional water utilization. Within the 15%, mining water use is lumped in with cattle feed operations, dairy operations, large-scale cooling facilities, large-scale power plants, new large landscape uses, sand and gravel facilities and turf-related facilities.
“The public perception is certainly that mines use a lot of water, but they don’t know how much water they’re using in comparison [to others],” Presmyk says. “So, we have to offset that and try to educate people that mining is not a necessary evil. It’s a necessary part of our way of life.”
As Sophie Dessart, manager of communications and public affairs at Florence Copper, explains, Arizona mines are continuously innovating to reduce water use, and this effort is occurring against the backdrop of statewide conservation goals. It’s important to note that mining accounts for about 1% of Arizona’s total water use, according to analysis by the Center for an Arizona Carbon-Neutral Economy.
“Regardless, the industry recognizes the need to constantly innovate and do more,” she says.
Arizona mining has and continues to keep its sights set on environmental conservation and improved practices. This means adopting more efficient technologies, expanding recycling systems and exploring opportunities to reuse water that would otherwise be lost.
“The mining industry continues to research and adopt effective technologies to optimize its beneficial use of water,” says Stuart Kimball, shareholder at Gallagher & Kennedy. These technologies have allowed the mining industry to maximize its facility operations by capturing previously used water to be reused. These efforts are not limited only to water, but are part of a larger effort of the mining industry to maximize its sustainable efforts.”
Dessart adds, “These innovations help reduce overall consumption and demonstrate that mining can coexist with Arizona’s long-term water stewardship efforts.”
Florence Copper’s proven in-situ copper recovery (ISCR) process is a prime example of how innovative technologies can provide significant water conservation benefits. Unlike extracting and processing massive quantities of mineralized rock, Florence Copper uses ISCR to dissolve copper minerals below ground, then pump a copper-rich solution to the surface for processesing into pure copper cathode sheets on site.
“Most of the water used on Florence Copper’s site is continuously recycled back through the ISCR process, resulting in an estimated 78% reduction in water consumption per pound of copper produced compared to a conventional open-pit copper mine in Arizona,” Dessart explains. Like Florence Copper, Resolution Copper remains committed to water conservation efforts. The mining operation has spent millions of dollars securing banked water, otherwise known as long-term storage credits, to provide water for its operations. This water comes from the Colorado River via the Central Arizona Project (CAP) canal and enough water has already been stored to sustain operations for more than half the mine’s operating life.
Water use often intersects with agriculture, municipalities and Tribal communities, which means there are key legal considerations mining companies must navigate when negotiating water rights and partnerships. Tribal nations play an increasingly pivotal role in Arizona’s long-term water security. Today, Tribal water leases already supply more than 150,000 acre-feet per year. This is more than the annual municipal use of Tucson or Mesa.
Two major settlements now moving through Congress — the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Agreement (NAIWRSA) and the YavapaiApache Nation Settlement Agreement (YANSA) — would further increase the volume of Tribal water available for leasing. In total, roughly 300,000 acre-feet per year of Colorado River water could ultimately be leased, depending on priority levels and shortage conditions.
But, for Tribal nations, water holds more than economic value. The cultural and spiritual significance of water must be acknowledged, making leasing decisions deeply nuanced.
“The mining industry is critical to Arizona’s success, whether hard rock mining or aggregate mining,” Kimball says. “Therefore, it is critical that all of the water users are consulted on any change in law or policy to ensure Arizona’s best interests are met and to minimize any unintended consequences.”
Communication and collaboration will be pivotal in the role water plays in understanding future mineral needs. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), mineral demand is set to rise sharply across all energy-transition scenarios: “In the STEPS (Stated Policies Scenario), demand doubles by 2030. In the APS (Announced Pledges Scenario), it more than doubles by 2030 and triples by 2050.”
Ultimately, this accelerated mineral demand tied to global clean-energy goals reinforces a key reality: Arizona’s ability to support the next era of mining is inseparable from its ability to manage water sustainably.
Tighter coordination between mining companies, Tribal governments, municipalities, state agencies and federal partners is paramount in ensuring that economic growth, environmental stewardship and long-term water security advance together.
Kimball explains that long-term water planning is essential because most Arizona mines operate for decades, far longer than many municipal or agricultural planning horizons. Even when water is available, transporting it is not always straightforward, since statutes limit how and where certain supplies can be moved.
“The various statutes and regulations impose different transportation limitations,” he says. “Fortunately, Arizona has focused on reasonable water policies to address these issues. The mining industry continues to work with all interested parties to ensure that Arizona prioritizes sufficient water availability to maintain Arizona’s economic future.”
Looking ahead, Kimball cautions that costly water-augmentation efforts or expensive new supply solutions could raise water prices in ways that undermine mining’s competitiveness. Maintaining balanced, transparent policy-making will be critical as Arizona expands both its cleanenergy mineral production and its longterm water-management strategies.
“The cost of water is likely to change given efforts by certain parties to adopt expensive solutions,” Kimball notes. “Given that many of the minerals are commodities, the prices are set on a global stage; therefore, any unnecessary increases may not be in the best interest of the public.”
Even with regulatory challenges and
economic considerations ahead, real-world collaboration is already proving what’s possible when water users work together. Florence Copper’s recent partnership in Pinal County is one example Dessart points to as a model for shared conservation benefits.
“I firmly believe there is strong potential for collaboration to promote water conservation in Arizona, including through shared water-reuse projects that benefit multiple users,” Dessart says, pointing to a recent initiative by Florence Copper.
Due to the small footprint of the ISCR process, Florence Copper does not use its entire property in Florence and leases approximately 25% of the land to a local farmer. Florence Copper recently secured state authorization to supplement irrigation water for a local farmer using surplus process water from its operations and began implementing this program in 2025. Over time, this program has the potential to offset up to 1,466 acre-feet of water annually, equivalent to the water use of more than 5,000 households.
“These types of partnerships reduce pressure on regional water supplies and demonstrate how mining operations can work constructively with agricultural and municipal users,” Dessart says. “As statewide water conservation efforts continue to evolve, collaborative approaches that maximize reuse and efficiency will be essential to ensuring long-term sustainability for all water users.”
For over 45 years, G&K a orneys have supported operating mines and mineral processing plants at hundreds of sites in over 39 states and on tribal lands. We’re here to help solve your environmental and natural resources legal issues.
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Higher education institutions are stepping up with new programs, industry partnerships and early exposure efforts to help shape the next generation of mining professionals
By ERIN THORBURN
Across the U.S. mining industry, a generational baton pass is underway, but not enough hands are reaching forward to take it. As longtenured professionals prepare to retire, the incoming workforce pipeline isn’t keeping pace. According to the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME), by 2029, more than half of the mining workforce will have exited the industry, creating a significant gap in both skill and institutional knowledge.
In Arizona, higher education is helping to refuel a pipeline of future professionals, ensuring that the baton makes its way to the next generation of mining professionals. Advancements in mining practices and technology have opened the door to more career paths than ever. Today, geologists, engineers and sustainability professionals are just a few examples of available and growing mining positions. In addition to presenting a diverse range of employment possibilities, mining jobs are often high-paying. According to the Arizona Mining Association, a geologist, metallurgist and mining engineer all have annual starting pay between $75-85K.
Throughout the state, universities and community colleges are preparing a new class of mining experts through varying education pathways. While the University of Arizona (U of A) has a dedicated mining-engineering program in the state (bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in Mining Engineering), there are a host of additional mining-related degree programs available to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving industry.
“I believe the next generation of mining professionals will need a strong combination of technical, digital and interdisciplinary skills,” says Hamed Khodadadi Tirkolaei, Ph.D., assistant professor in Arizona State University’s (ASU) School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment and a researcher with the Center for Biomediated and Bio-inspired Geotechnics. “As mining becomes increasingly automated and data-driven, competencies in data analytics, remote sensing, machine learning, geospatial modeling and digital mine planning will be essential.”
ASU’s School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment is a prime example, as are the universities’ mining-
adjacent programs such as geological sciences, Earth and space exploration, geochemistry, environmental science and environmental engineering.
NAU, Arizona Western College, Eastern Arizona College and Estrella Mountain Community College also offer geology, environmental sciences, Earth sciences and environmental sustainability educational opportunities for mining-career hopefuls.
“I’m very happy to report that student interest in mining is growing,” says Kray Luxbacher, Ph.D., P.E., the Gregory H. and Lisa S. Boyce Leadership Chair and executive director and head of the School of Mining Engineering and Mineral Resources at the University of Arizona (U of A).
Luxbacher observes more students seeking to educate themselves about mining and career opportunities in the industry, and that ASU’s general education courses on mining are attracting hundreds of students from over 40 different majors annually.
“This year we have our largest incoming class of mining engineers in over a decade,” she continues. “Something that caught my attention is the popularity of our interdisciplinary minor in Sustainable
UNCOVERING A CAREER: By 2029, more than half of the mining workforce will have exited the industry, creating a significant gap in both skill and institutional knowledge. That’s why the state’s colleges and universities, along with mining companies themselves, are creating a talent pipeline to train professionals who can support this rapidly changing indsutry — now and into the future. (Image licensed from ©Adobe Stock)
Mineral Resources among students studying Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information Science, Data Science, Computer Science and Software Engineering.”
Khodadadi Tirkolaei explains that as the industry undergoes rapid digital transformation, innovative thinking will become increasingly important as a career skillset.
“Mining professionals must be able to develop creative solutions, challenge traditional methods, and adapt emerging technologies to meet complex operational and environmental challenges,” he says.
Soft skills such as communication, collaboration and systems thinking are also assets needed for a new age of mining, since modern mining intersects with energy transitions, community engagement, permitting and environmental stewardship.
“Mining is no longer a siloed field, and the professionals who succeed will be those who can work across disciplines, embrace new technologies and lead innovation in a rapidly evolving industry,” Khodadadi Tirkolaei notes.
Industry partnerships strengthening Arizona’s mining pipeline Mining companies across Arizona —
including Freeport-McMoRan, Resolution Copper, Florence Copper, South32 Hermosa and others — partner with several universities throughout the state. Many support mineral processing labs, research centers, innovation hubs and scholarships.
Education Forward Arizona and Freeport-McMoRan developed the “Guarantee Your Future with Freeport” program, offering scholarships, technical training, paid internships and job placements for community college students in mining-relevant trades. The program is slated for review ahead of the 2026-2027 cycle.
“We work very closely with industry on our research projects, which allows our students to be exposed to full-scale cuttingedge research,” Luxbacher says. “Everything from proving autonomous equipment in underground mines to exploring improved processing approaches for everything from copper to rare earth elements to assuring robust approaches to community health. We also work with industry mentors on classroom design projects and guest lectures.”
ASU — ranked No. 1 in the U.S. for innovation for 11 consecutive years — is positioned as a powerful mining industry partner and cultivates what Khodadadi Tirkolaei describes as an innovative culture that directly aligns with the transformation currently underway in mining.
“ASU’s strategic partnerships with mining companies, technology developers and national agencies help ensure that curriculum and training remain tightly aligned with industry needs,” he says.
“With growing national emphasis on critical minerals and domestic resource security, ASU is expanding focused initiatives that target mining innovation, workforce development and curriculum evolution.”
Despite an abundance of mining programs in higher education, presenting career options must begin earlier to provide younger children a true understanding of what mining looks like today.
“Traditionally, a disproportionate percentage of mining students have come from mining families and mining towns,” Luxbacher explains. “While this is an important base, it’s also a very narrow segment of the population.”
Luxbacher adds that the vast majority of today’s students are never exposed to opportunities in mining and, as a consequence, are excluded.
“We need stronger community college engagement, dual-enrollment pathways for high-school students and apprenticeshipstyle programs that blend technical education with on-site training,” Khodadadi Tirkolaei says. “Early exposure is key; many students do not consider mining simply because they have never seen modern mining.”
Initiatives like the $2.5 million grant from the Freeport-McMoRan Foundation, established in 2024, support U of A K-12 programs that educate teachers and students about responsible mining, education and careers in the mining industry, and are helping introduce modern mining earlier in education.
“Our K–12 education outreach program brings mining to classrooms and STEM events statewide, reaching over 12,000 students per year,” Luxbacher says. “We’ve begun training middle and high school science teachers on how to use mining lesson plans in their classes.”
In closing, Khodadadi Tirkolaei says, “Recruitment must extend beyond traditional engineering. The future of mining requires data scientists, roboticists, automation specialists, biochemists, biogeotechnologists, hydrologists, sustainability experts and systems engineers. The more we communicate mining’s technological transformation and commitment to ESG principles, the more students will see it as a place where they can innovate, contribute and build meaningful careers.”
Florence Copper’s Justiss Green discusses her path into mining and what she’s learned as a recent graduate entering the industry.
By ERIN THORBURN
As Arizona works to strengthen its mining talent pipeline, recent graduates are stepping into roles that redefine what a modern mining career can look like. Justiss Green, public affairs assistant at Florence Copper, represents this next generation. Az Business talked with Green to learn more about how she found her path into mining.
Az Business: What drew you to pursue a career in mining?
Justiss Green: Honestly, I never originally saw mining as an option for someone in my field of study. My family has worked in the mining industry, but growing up, I didn’t fully understand what went into it or how
many different roles existed beyond the technical side. Once I started learning more — especially through communications and public relations — I realized how important it is for mining companies to connect with the public, explaining their work clearly and building trust with the community.
My academic background in public relations really shaped that interest. It gave me the skills to take something complex and make it understandable and approachable, which is a big part of effective communication in the mining industry. AB: What opportunities do you see in Arizona’s mining sector?
JG: Arizona’s mining sector feels like it’s in an exciting place, especially with
GREENHORN: Shortly after graduating college, Justiss Green joined Florence Copper as a public affairs assistant. (Photo courtesy of Florence Copper)
new technologies and more sustainable approaches becoming industry standards. There are huge opportunities to grow in different areas of the mining industry ... For young professionals, there’s room to take on responsibility early, build strong networks and be part of projects that make a difference. With how fast the industry is evolving, it feels like a great place to grow a long-term career.
How Arizona mines are balancing rising demand, clean energy needs and environmental responsibility to secure America’s copper-dependent future.
By ERIN THORBURN
The writing is on the wall, and it’s written in copper-colored ink: copper demand will outstrip supply within the next decade. Not great news, considering clean energy transition goals will require 115% more copper to be mined over the next 30 years than has been mined throughout history, according to EY Americas. With Arizona producing a large share of this precious commodity, mining operations are accelerating innovation, investment and production strategies to meet growing demand.
Arizona’s growing role in U.S. copper production
Arizona produces about 70% of the nation’s copper, and projects like Florence Copper and Resolution Copper will further strengthen national supply chains.
“Over its 22-year operating life, Florence Copper is expected to produce 1.5 billion pounds of copper, with a production capacity of 85 million pounds per year when fully operational and $4.3 billion in economic impact,” says Sophie Dessart, manager of communications and public affairs at Florence Copper, “positioning the project to become the third-largest copper cathode producer in the U.S.”
Tyson Nansel, principal advisor of communications and corporate affairs for the copper group at Resolution Copper, explains that once in operation, the Resolution mine could supply up to one-quarter of the nation’s copper demand, delivering vital fuel for American innovation and economic growth.
“We have the potential to produce the entire projected global copper need for wind
Tyson Nansel
and solar power generation over the life of the mine,” he says. “We also have the potential to support the manufacturing of almost 220 million electric vehicle batteries, or nearly half of the projected global supply, by 2040.”
Meeting clean energy demand with homegrown copper
Nansel zeros in on a vital issue: rapidly growing clean energy needs. Copper is an essential component in mobile devices, medical equipment, and clean energy technologies, and demand is growing worldwide.
“The World Bank estimates global copper demand could rise by 200% by 2050,” he says. “Having a steady home-grown copper supply will be a competitive advantage for U.S. manufacturing companies with American copper from Resolution Copper.”
National security and the push for domestic supply
Domestic copper production isn’t only vital in terms of supporting the clean energy transition. As of now, the U.S. remains roughly 50% dependent on foreign suppliers, bringing about national security concerns.
According to the White House, “This dominance, coupled with global overcapacity and a single producer’s control of world supply chains, poses a direct threat to U.S. national security and economic stability.”
Mining innovation reduces environmental impacts
Amid securing copper to meet growing green energy and national security requirements, Arizona’s copper mines must also balance and prioritize environmental stewardship.
“Florence Copper’s in-situ recovery method is forecast to produce 75% fewer carbon emissions, use 65% less energy, and consume 78% less water per pound of copper produced,” Dessart says, “making it one of the lowest-intensity copper producers in the world.”
Technology and AI are transforming copper mining
The advent of modern mining practices, new technologies, advanced analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) has changed the game in mining operations and environmental responsibility, mitigating pollution risks and other environmental hazards.
“As regulations and accepted science evolve, so do our environmentalmanagement methods,” Nansel says. “We are committed to understanding and mitigating the impacts our operations may have on the environment, starting before the mine is in production through postclosure.”
In closing, Nansel adds, “It’s an exciting time to be in mining, especially here in Arizona. In many ways, our state is serving as a testbed for advanced mining technologies that will improve productivity while mitigating the impacts our operations may have on the environment.”
State Mine Inspector Les Presmyk shares all about his responsibilities in the office and the opportunities ahead for Arizona mining
By ERIN THORBURN
Les Presmyk, Arizona State Mine inspector, has worn many hats in his mining career. A University of Arizona–trained mining engineer with nearly five decades of hands-on experience across copper, coal and uranium operations, Presmyk has spent his career underground, in boardrooms and on the front lines of policy shaping.
Before he assumed office, Presmyk’s career included supervising production at Magma Copper Company to administering major mine contracts as SRP’s principal mining engineer, all while serving more than 30 years in civic leadership. He served
12 years on the Gilbert Town Council and founded multiple veteran- and communityfocused programs. Now, as Arizona’s State Mine Inspector, he brings a rare blend of technical expertise, historical knowledge and public service commitment to one of the most consequential regulatory roles in the state’s mining future.
Az Business magazine sat down with Presmyk to learn more about his background, commitment to community service and his priorities as the Grand Canyon State’s mine inspector. The following responses have been edited for clarity and length.
Az Business: Can you share a bit about your background and how your career led you to Arizona mining?
Les Presmyk: Between my work while I was going to school at Magma Copper, and then as a professional, I’ve spent almost 45 years in and around Arizona mining. I was board chairman for the Trapper Mine for the last five years of my career with SRP. My office used to be 4,000 feet underground at No. 9 shaft. So I am intimately entwined with what Resolution Copper is doing there and very, very interested.
The last 30 years I spent with SRP dealing with coal and uranium fuel supplies for our
generating stations. I was originally hired to help work on and hopefully bring the Fence Lake Coal Mine project into production.
AB: You’ve been deeply involved in community service, especially with veterans. What inspired that commitment?
LP: Six years ago, I was tasked by our then-mayor [of Gilbert] to start up our Veterans Advisory Board. I’m not a veteran, but my father was a World War II veteran. We have half a dozen nieces and nephews who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and several of them are continuing to serve. Since I was elected, I’ve done a large part of my commitment to public service to our veterans and their families — and I’m still on the Veterans Advisory Board.
AB: Beyond mining, you’ve been involved in Arizona’s mineral museums. Can you share more?
LP: I was happily and gainfully busy for the last eight and a half years because I’m also on the U of A Mining and Mineral Museum Advisory Council to reopen the Mining and Mineral Museum up here in
Phoenix. I spent several years working on the University of Arizona Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum in Tucson, both prior to the pandemic and after the pandemic. There are three halls I laid out and organized in the center hall.
AB: How did you end up being considered for the State Mine Inspector role?
LP: In May [2024], Paul Marsh called me to tell me he was resigning to take a job in Dallas, and asked if I would be interested in being considered. He and I have known each other for 30 years or so. I turned to my wife, Paula, and I said, “This is what’s being asked of me. What do you think?” Her first answer was no. But then I asked her if I could at least meet with Paul Marsh and talk about what the duties of the office are, and especially the time commitments.
AB: What are your short-term goals as you settle into the role?
LP: It’s basically to learn the job, to learn about my people and what their skill sets are, and to promote the mining industry and the mine inspector’s office — because
99.5% of the people have no idea what I do and what my office does.
AB: Many people don’t fully understand today’s mining landscape. What common misconceptions do you encounter?
LP: A lot of people have asked me if we answer to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). I point out that the state mine inspector’s office is 60 years older than MSHA is; we’ve been around since 1912.
AB: What long-term priorities are you focusing on for the office?
LP: Longer-term goals: one is to gather my signatures and my $5 contributions so I can get on the ballot next year. But mainly, we want to work towards getting my trainers certified by MSHA to do the underground new miner training.
AB: What’s your view of mining in Arizona?
LP: This is mining’s time to shine. There’s a lot of activity in the state and mining companies are recognizing the importance of the environment and the importance of preserving our water resources. The stars are aligning.
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JESUS OLIVARES VP Southwest Operations (520) 729-7940 jolivares@southernwelding.com SCAN TO LEARN MORE
Arizona voters show strong support for copper mining, higher education’s role in workforce development for the industry
By ERIN THORBURN
Arizona’s copper industry is powering more than just the economy — it’s energizing voter confidence, workforce priorities and the state’s role in shaping America’s high-tech future.
That’s the big takeaway from the fourth annual survey conducted in partnership by the Arizona Mining Association and the University of Arizona School of Mining Engineering & Mineral Resources, which reveals continued support for mining and post-secondary mining education — and a clear voter mandate to double down on smart growth strategies rooted in strong economic drivers.
Conducted October 13–19, 2025, by HighGround Public Affairs, the poll focused on high-efficacy voters in Southern
Arizona, with a sample balanced across party lines, gender, age and region.
“Arizona’s copper industry continues to be essential not only for our economy but also for national security and reducing reliance on foreign imports,” says Steve Trussell, executive director of the Arizona Mining Association. “Voters are recognizing that the various mining development projects in Arizona provide a well-regulated, sustainable source of a vital resource, while supporting our local economy.”
Copper mining is no longer a background player — it’s front and center in voters’ minds. Survey findings include:
• 61.8% of voters expressed general
support for copper mining in Southern Arizona, compared to 29.7% opposed.
• 56.5% of voters support Hudbay’s Copper World project after learning more about it.
• A resounding 90.8% of respondents say it’s very or somewhat important for Arizona to maintain a university that offers mining education.
• 63% back increased state funding for mining-related education programs.
That educational component is becoming increasingly vital.
“This year’s poll highlights a clear demand for increased education in mining,” says Misael Cabrera, director of the University of Arizona School of Mining Engineering & Mineral Resources. “With over 90%
support, the public is giving us a nearly unanimous mandate to educate students on how mining and minerals play an integral role in their daily lives. At the School of Mining, we are committed to preparing the next generation of mining professionals, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to be a responsible part of this dynamic and important industry.”
Voters prioritize people, jobs and economic stability
The survey shows voters aren’t just focused on industry — they’re deeply concerned with day-to-day quality-of-life issues:
• Homelessness topped the list of community concerns at 19.3%
• Jobs and the Economy followed at 14.5%
These priorities underscore a broader recognition that economic development, workforce training and social challenges are all interlinked — and copper mining, with its high-wage job creation and infrastructure investments, is increasingly seen as part of the solution.
Mining, Innovation and Arizona’s Global Position
Projects like Resolution Copper are especially resonating with the public.
“The Resolution Copper mine is vital to securing America’s energy future, infrastructure needs and national defense with a domestic supply of copper and other critical minerals,” sys Vicky Peacey, general manager of Resolution Copper. “We are
What it is: As one of the founding schools in 1885, mining is in the DNA of the University of Arizona. But the industry and the world it serves have evolved greatly since those early years. Responsible practices, health and safety, artificial intelligence, mining in space, virtual reality – the School of Mining is at the forefront of a tech revolution to make a better world. Learn more: mining.arizona.edu
encouraged by the significant community support for the project, which has the potential to become one of the largest copper mines in America, add $1 billion a year to Arizona’s economy and create thousands of local jobs in a region where mining has played an important role for more than a century.”
Peacey also emphasized the project’s commitment to transparency and inclusion: “More than a decade of extensive consultation and collaboration with Native American Tribes and local communities has directly led to major changes to the mining plan to preserve and reduce potential impacts on Tribal, social and cultural interests and this ongoing dialogue will continue to shape the project.”
With copper being a foundational element in everything from electric vehicles to clean energy and AI infrastructure, the survey reaffirms what many Arizonans already know: the future is being mined here — and it’s powered by people, innovation and education.
As voter support solidifies around workforce-ready education and sustainable resource development, Arizona is poised to lead not just regionally, but globally.
Here are some of the highlights of survey from the Arizona Mining Association and the University of Arizona School of Mining Engineering & Mineral Resources:
Knowing what you know right now (project description provided), do you support or oppose Copper World?
Do you believe that the State of Arizona should increase funding for postsecondary mining education?
How important is it that Arizona has a university that offers mining education to prepare the mining workforce?
In general, do you support or oppose copper mining in Southern Arizona?
Do you believe Hudbay should be allowed to utilize its private property to conduct mining operations as long as they meet local, state and federal regulations?
What it is: The Arizona Mining Association is a nonprofit corporation comprised of entities engaged in mining and mineral processing in Arizona. In 2024, AMA member companies produced approximately 74% of the nation’s newly-mined copper, along with significant amounts of associated valuable co-products (e.g., gold, silver, selenium, tellurium and molybdenum). Arizona’s hard rock mining industry employs approximately 14,580 people directly
which supported an additional 44,339 indirectly and has an estimated direct and indirect impact on the Arizona economy of nearly $21.1 billion. The AMA is the unified voice of responsible, sustainable and safe mining in Arizona. Through our advocacy, we help Arizona continue to be a premier location for mining investment in the U.S.
Learn more: azmining.org
95%
80,000
Endures
From AI to automation, innovation is ushering in a smarter era of mining
By ERIN THORBURN
Innovation is the name of the new mining game. The pickaxe of old has been replaced by automation, AI and other advanced technologies. Alongside evolving tools, new and more efficient approaches are ushering mining practices into a new era.
One can only imagine what coal miners working in precarious mine shafts in the early 1900s would think if they could witness drones and self-driving trucks operating at today’s mining sites.
“Mining is rapidly becoming more technology-driven and the industry is evolving to reflect that,” says Tyson Nansel, principal adviser of communications, corporate affairs and copper group for Resolution Copper.
The World Economic Forum reports several notable statistics that highlight how advanced technology is benefiting both the mining industry and the environment:
• Companies that have introduced AI in exploration have reported a 20% to 30% reduction in the time and costs associated with mineral discovery.
• Autonomous systems have the potential to increase productivity by 15%.
• Modern flotation systems can improve recovery rates by 10% to 20% in the refining process.
• Mining businesses that invest in renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, can reduce costs by up to 30%.
• Advanced recycling methods are recovering valuable minerals from waste materials, with the global market for mining waste recycling expected to reach $70 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 6.5%.
Arizona innovations leading the way
A major technology win for and Arizona mine, Florence Copper, is its in-situ copper recovery (ISCR).
“As the first greenfield ISCR operation in the world, the project dissolves copper minerals underground and pumps the copper-rich solution to the surface for processing into pure copper cathode sheets,” explains Sophie Dessart, manager of communications and public affairs for Florence Copper. “This eliminates the need for large-scale excavation, open pits, waste rock piles and other activities traditionally associated with mining.”
Dessart says ISCR is forecast to produce 75% fewer carbon emissions, use 65% less energy and consume 78% less water per pound of copper compared to traditional open-pit mining.
Reducing impact while increasing efficiency
At Resolution Copper, innovation is also shaping how mining occurs beneath the surface.
“You won’t see an open pit at our Resolution Copper mine,” Nansel says.
“We use the block cave mining technique, which results in a slow, progressive sinking of the ground above the deposit, called subsidence.”
Resolution Copper monitors and manages subsidence during and after mining operations to minimize potential impacts and preserve natural features such as Apache Leap.
The company has also invested millions of dollars to secure banked water and must dewater, or remove water deep within the bedrock, to operate safely. Since 2009, that water has been treated on-site and redistributed to an irrigation district for alfalfa growers.
Since that time, Resolution Copper has provided approximately 7 billion gallons of water to farmers, allowing that same volume of water to remain in the ground for future use.
“Innovations that reduce a project’s environmental footprint while increasing
efficiency will have a significant impact,” Dessart adds.
perception and public understanding
Despite advancements in technologydriven mining, industry experts note that challenges remain.
“One challenge is ensuring the public understands how innovative technologies integrate into operations and enhance safety, efficiency and environmental performance,” Dessart says. “Misinformation can create barriers, so companies must invest in education and outreach to explain the role of automation and digital systems in modern mining.”
Stuart Kimball, a shareholder at Gallagher & Kennedy, has observed that many Arizona mining associations begin meetings with a safety share to emphasize the importance of employee and public safety.
“The mining industry has always adopted and often funded research into, advanced technologies to ensure compliance with regulations and protect public health and the environment,” Kimball says.
Kimball adds that worker health and safety remain a top priority. “Mining companies consistently focus on safety measures and take pride in their safety successes,” he says.
Building the next generation workforce
Another obstacle to advancing mining innovation is the need for a skilled workforce capable of operating and maintaining increasingly complex systems.
“Mining companies must partner with educational institutions to identify needed skills and support training programs,” Dessart says. “These relationships help ensure local talent is prepared for evolving roles and create opportunities for employees to develop long-term, high-tech careers within the industry.”
As Arizona’s mining workforce ages, demand is growing for technical, digital and skilled-trade roles that support modern, highly automated operations, particularly at block cave mines such as Resolution Copper.
According to Nansel, those roles include electricians, mechanics, underground equipment operators, geologists, environmental scientists, data analysts, automation technicians and safety professionals.
As mining continues to evolve, technology is no longer a supporting player but a central force shaping the industry’s future. From environmental stewardship to workforce development, innovation is redefining what modern mining looks like in Arizona and setting a standard for operations worldwide.t
By MICHAEL GOSSIE
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer on the horizon of the legal industry — it is here, and it is already rewriting the rules of how law firms investigate, prepare, manage and deliver services. While some attorneys see AI as a challenge, others view it as a gamechanging opportunity to increase efficiency, improve client satisfaction and reimagine the future of legal work.
From research to relationships: A paradigm shift
“AI is shifting how cases are investigated, researched, prepared and presented,” says Amy Abdo, director at Fennemore and one of Az Business magazine’s Top 100 Lawyers in Arizona for 2026. “We are staying ahead of this disruption by using AI tools and experts to assist in undertaking a heightened level of analysis of evidence, case law and data presented by our adversaries.” But Abdo also stresses the importance of maintaining authenticity, empathy and credibility — particularly with jurors who are increasingly skeptical in this digital age.
This balance between innovation and tradition is echoed across the legal field. AI’s ability to quickly and efficiently analyze
vast quantities of information has made it an invaluable tool in everything from discovery to case strategy. “Used correctly and ethically, these are valuable tools that have the potential to reduce the costs of legal representation, improve client satisfaction and enhance lawyer quality of life,” says Joshua S. Becker, shareholder at Gallagher & Kennedy.
The ethical imperative
However, Becker warns of the ethical pitfalls: “AI tools, while proficient in processing data, often lack an understanding of legal concepts, the nuances of particular legal issues and the ability to interpret the law in a proper context.” The risk, he says, lies in lawyers over-relying on these tools without verifying their outputs — potentially violating ethical obligations to provide competent, accurate representation.
Jodi R. Bohr, shareholder at Milligan Lawless and also one of Az Business magazine’s Top 100 Lawyers, emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility: “I have embraced [AI] by becoming an early adopter. I am learning what I can to follow ethical considerations while using AI more effectively.” For many legal professionals,
the goal is not to replace human judgment, but to enhance it.
As AI tools become more embedded in practice, law firms are rethinking how they train young attorneys. “We cannot train them ‘how we were trained,’” says Shelley Detwiller DiGiacomo, partner at Engelman Berger. “I am focusing on providing as much context as I can when giving feedback to associates to help them better evaluate the starting points the new tools deliver.” AI is changing not only how legal tasks are done, but how new professionals learn to think, analyze and grow within the industry.
David W. Wilhelmsen, partner at Snell & Wilmer, sees a similar trend: “Although it will hardly be unique to the legal industry, artificial intelligence is likely to change the practice of law … We are preparing for this challenge by training young lawyers to sharpen their analytical skills and critical thinking.”
The fear that AI might erode the human element of law is real — and not without merit. “Attorneys must face a growing perception among consumers
that AI can be a productive alternative to the hands-on analysis and advice that is at the essence of the attorney-client relationship,” warns Donald Peder Johnsen, shareholder at Gallagher & Kennedy. “We must help clients understand that the true legal ‘advice’ they need requires a real relationship with a professional, not a onetime chatbot search.”
Andrea Lovell, office managing shareholder at Littler, also stresses the importance of maintaining human connection: “AI is one of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the legal industry… This includes carefully balancing potential efficiencies and cost savings with an awareness of the imperfect nature of the technology and the need to maintain a personal touch as trusted advisors.”
For many firms, the approach is cautious curiosity. “Artificial intelligence is the biggest challenge,” says Stephanie J. Quincy, shareholder at Greenberg Traurig. “It has the potential to make the legal industry more accessible to non-lawyers and cheaper. But it also seems to have empowered laziness, thoughtlessness, and a belief that it is a substitute for lawyers or thinking.”
Her team is exploring AI’s use “very carefully,” hoping to learn from others’ successes and failures.
Gary Smith, attorney at Guidant Law, takes a more philosophical stance: “Generative AI and the replacement of human minds in the push to ‘systematize’ law… In time, this will strip law practice of its population and its humanity.” Still, he acknowledges its present value: “Until then, I’m embracing and leveraging its capabilities inside of my law practice.”
Beyond the courtroom, AI is reshaping the operational backbone of law firms. “Implementation of generative artificial intelligence will be a common theme and catalyst regarding issues that have traditionally confronted law firms,” says Terence W. Thompson, shareholder at Gallagher & Kennedy. He cites AI’s impact on technology management, retention, hybrid workforce challenges, client intake, billing and cybersecurity.
Mitchell J. Resnick, president and cofounder of Resnick & Louis, connects AI’s rise to broader industry pressures: “One of the biggest challenges will be whether insurance companies can keep pace with
the overwhelming volume of litigation while also facing a shrinking pool of professionals entering claims and insurance defense law.”
To stay ahead, Resnick & Louis has invested in employee retention and internal support systems. “We’ve established an in-house recruiting department and hired a Director of Attorney Success … We have put many resources into providing a great experience for our clients,” Resnick explains.
What’s next?
As AI continues to evolve, so too will the way legal services are delivered, consumed, and valued. Law firms that adapt with intention — balancing speed with substance, innovation with insight — will lead the industry into a new era of practice.
Whether you see AI as an existential threat or a transformative tool, one thing is certain: The legal landscape in five years will look very different than it does today.
The profession is at a crossroads — one where technological fluency, ethical vigilance and human empathy must all coexist. As AI enters the courtroom, the conference room and even the classroom, the future of law will belong to those who know how to use it — wisely.
Abujbarah is the managing attorney of Phillips Law Group, P.C. He is a first generation Palestinian-American whose family immigrated from the Middle East in 1988 and landed in Phoenix, where he has lived ever since. Abujbarah manages all facets of Phillips Law Group, one of Arizona’s largest consumer law firms, representing hundreds of thousands of individuals over its 32 years of existence. Under Abujbarah’s leadership, Phillips Law Group has undergone a meteoric rise in results and national recognition.
“I am a first-generation immigrant from the Middle East. My parents decided to move here because my sister was born with cerebral palsy and the opportunities for her in the Middle East simply were not available so that she could grow and prosper. When we moved to America, my mother’s professional license was not accepted in the U.S., so my mom had to go back to school. During that time, my dad became an ice cream truck driver to support his family. I saw the hard work and dedication he put in every single day to protect us while my mom went back to school. When she graduated, my dad then got to go back and continue his education. They are the epitome of the ‘American Dream’ and they did it so their children could prosper. I decided to become an attorney so I could continue in my parent’s path — loyalty, dedication, hard work and creating something bigger than myself.”
Trends to watch: “Everyone is going to say the proliferation of AI in our industry. And they are not wrong. However, the firms that are able to actually partner with tech companies are those who will continue to see the best outcomes. Phillips Law Group has entered into agreements with some of the best AI companies in the space who offer PLG’s clients access to the leading edge of technology. We believe in aggressive efficiency here. No shortcuts, no excuses; but the tech will help in minimizing waste, which naturally has resulted in greater outcomes for our clients.”
The joy of the job: “The brilliant coworkers I get to do this with every day. The employees at this firm are so dedicated that it is a constant motivation for me. Our mantra at Phillips Law Group is a simple one: ‘They who work the hardest wins.’ Our office works really hard on behalf of our clients. Witnessing how hard everyone works makes me want to give even more effort.”
Learn more: phillipslaw.com
Director Fennemore
Practice areas: Business litigation
Background: Abdo is a strategic trial attorney at Fennemore. She represents leading law firms and attorneys in defending professional liability claims. She also advises and advocates for business clients in complex commercial and employment litigation. Abdo is known for her practical, handson approach — helping clients manage risk, navigate disputes and achieve efficient, effective resolutions.
Attraction to law: “I’ve always been the one others turned to when challenges or disputes arose. Early on, I discovered I had a natural ability to bring clarity to complicated situations and help others resolve difficult situations. In my litigation practice, I consistently draw upon those skills. With every successful resolution, my drive strengthens — it is rewarding to watch my clients regain confidence and renewed focus on the other side of the litigation they faced. Today, what motivates me is transforming complex disputes into clear, manageable strategies and creating a direct path forward for the businesses and professionals who trust me to guide them.”
Professional advice: “Integrity is the cornerstone of our profession, and it should never be compromised. Your reputation is your most valuable asset — it takes years to build a solid reputation but only moments to tarnish it. Approach every matter with honesty and every person, including your adversaries, with respect. Stay committed to learning; your growth as a professional doesn’t end with experience — it evolves because of it. Ultimately, how you conduct yourself, especially in high-pressure situations, will define your credibility and reputation far more than any single outcome.”
Learn more: fennemorelaw.com
William G. Klain Director Fennemore
Practice areas: Business litigation
Background: Klain represents clients in a wide range of business disputes and corporate matters, including business dissolutions, fiduciary breaches, non-compete agreements and civil appeals. Known for his acumen in Arizona commercial litigation and corporate law, he also serves as a mediator and arbitrator. Klain’s dedication to his clients and extensive trial experience have earned him a reputation as a formidable advocate in complex cases. He actively participates in Arizona’s legal community, contributing to civil procedure reform initiatives that improve judicial processes in Arizona and further enhance his strategic approach to client advocacy.
Attraction to law: “I am a third-generation lawyer in my family, which afforded me an opportunity to observe the impact lawyers can have on bettering their clients’ circumstances. Likewise, I was attracted to the profession by the fact that no two days are ever the same. Each new matter exposes me to new industries, people and substantive areas of law, resulting in an ever-evolving practice experience. While each continues to hold true, as the years have passed, I’ve also drawn motivation from opportunities afforded to me to help improve our civil justice system through various procedural innovation initiatives.”
Professional advice: “I would offer two pieces of advice to lawyers entering the profession today. First, master the (appropriate) use of artificial intelligence (AI). AI is already changing practice in profound ways and by developing the skill to employ it effectively you will position yourself as a sought-after resource. Second, become involved in the legal community, whether by serving on a committee, volunteering at a pro bono clinic, or otherwise. These opportunities can help you find broader purpose and greater reward as a professional than you likely can achieve through practice and develop a sound network of colleagues.”
Learn more: fennemorelaw.com
Attorney
Osborn Maledon
Practice areas: Corporate and business law, outside general counsel
Background: Ariano is an advocate for Arizona’s startup community, acting as both legal counsel and trusted advisor to emerging entrepreneurs. The bulk of Ariano’s practice includes acting as outside general counsel to early-stage growth companies, who bring him on board early in their business’ life cycle.
Attraction to law: Working as a technology consultant for Accenture and then managing internet security for Tosco Corporation, Ariano attended law school at night never intending to practice law. Soon after graduating, however, he began reviewing technology contracts and practicing trademark law. For a time, Ariano worked in both the IT and Legal Departments concurrently. In 2003, he made the move to private practice and has been at Osborn Maledon ever since.
Professional advice: “Learn how to leverage AI tools in your practice. First, they will make you far more efficient, allowing you to provide a better work product for less expense to your client. Second, most of your clients will be using AI tools themselves, so understanding how that will guide their thinking and actions will allow you to better service your clients’ needs.”
Learn more: omlaw.com
Managing partner
Bishop Del Vecchio & Beeks Law Firm
Practice areas: Family law
Background: Bishop is a Certified Family Law Specialist (State Bar of Arizona); Fellow, American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers; Super Lawyers Top 50 Arizona Attorneys (all areas of practice); and 2025 Best Lawyers, Family Law Attorney of the Year (Scottsdale). He primarily provides services regarding premarital agreements, and provides mediation services for divorce and family law cases.
Attraction to law: “Initially, I desired to obtain my law degree without knowing for sure that I wanted to practice law. My motivation has evolved over time from becoming the best attorney I could be, to becoming a certified specialist, and finally to building and managing a successful divorce and family law firm. Throughout my career I have been actively involved as an officer and member of the State Bar of Arizona and MCBA Family Law Sections (former chair for both). I am currently an officer of the Arizona Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (Arizona Chapter). Giving back to the profession by teaching continuing legal education and other programs through the AAML, State Bar and MCBA have been extremely rewarding to me and have helped me adapt to the changing terrain and complexities involved in the practice. I also enjoy volunteering during Law Day through the Fresh Start Women’s Center.”
Professional advice: “In order to develop fully as a divorce and family lawyer, I recommend that you become an Arizona Certified Family Law Specialist as soon as you are eligible. This will force you to raise your knowledge base and legal practice exponentially.”
Learn more: bdblawfirm.com
Managing family law partner // DM Cantor
Practice areas: Family law
Background: A Phoenix native, Boca began his career as an assistant attorney general, representing the Department of Child Safety. In this position, he appeared in several hundred court hearings, mediations and trials. After that, Boca started with DM Cantor, where he is now the Managing Family Law Partner. As a Board-Certified Family Law Specialist, Boca’s trial experience continues to build, handling extremely contentious custody matters, high-net-worth, complex and high-profile cases, representing athletes, celebrities and CEOs.
Attraction to law: “I was initially inspired by a deep-seated desire to help people. This began with my work as a CourtAppointed Advocate for foster children and serving on the board of Skate After School, a nonprofit organization supporting underserved youth. Within my law firm, my motivation has evolved beyond direct client aid to fostering collective growth. Today, I am also driven to empower my colleagues, helping them develop their careers and reach their full potential. I believe that a rising tide raises all boats — success is maximized when we lift each other up, challenge one another and hold each other accountable.”
Secret sauce: “Do not enter this profession intending to coast. The responsibility we carry for our clients is too important to be motivated solely by punching a clock and collecting a paycheck. To practice law well, you must commit to honing your craft — this requires putting in time after hours and on weekends, especially early on. Develop discipline and take ownership of your professional growth. If the necessary dedication to excellence scares you, consider a different career path. This profession demands passion, diligence and constant effort. It is what our clients deserve and anything less is unacceptable.”
Learn more: dmcantor.com
Practice areas: Criminal defense
Background: Whalin became an attorney in 2006, immediately practicing criminal defense. She joined DM Cantor in 2010, becoming a partner in 2018. She is one of only 12 female criminal defense attorneys in Arizona who are Board Certified Specialists in Criminal Law. She represents individuals in all types of criminal cases, ranging from state and federal felony and misdemeanor matters to school discipline and Title IX litigation. Whalin has represented countless clients, achieving successful results in the form of dismissals, reduced sentences and complete jury trial acquittals. She handles all types of criminal matters, including pre-charge, charged and post-conviction appeals.
Attraction to law: “I was inspired to pursue a career in law by a desire to help people navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Early on, I realized that protecting individual rights also meant upholding the Constitution and ensuring its promises apply equally to everyone. Over time, my motivation has deepened as I’ve seen how crucial it is to ensure people have a voice when confronted with criminal charges. Today, I’m driven by the belief that advocacy can change outcomes — and that every person deserves fairness, dignity and someone firmly in their corner.”
Professional advice: “My advice to new lawyers is to embrace hard work and understand that growth in this profession comes from consistent effort. Be open and excited to receive feedback — it’s one of the fastest ways to improve your judgment and skills. Always listen carefully, whether to clients, colleagues or opponents; it will make you a more effective advocate. And work from the office, because so much of real learning happens in the hallways through spontaneous conversations, observations and mentoring moments you simply can’t get remotely.”
Learn more: dmcantor.com
Background: In addition to first-chairing a double capital murder trial, Cantor has handled multiple homicide and murder cases, resulting in both dismissals of charges, and “turn-downs” regarding prosecution. After beginning his career as an assistant City of Phoenix prosecutor, where he was undefeated in 30 jury trials, Cantor then went into private practice and has now first-chaired to over 200 jury trials. His early successes allowed him to become a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist in 1999, and he has handled many highprofile cases which have been covered by both the local and national media.
Attraction to law: “My grandfather was defense attorney. My dad was a prosecutor, defense attorney and a judge. And both my mother and sister were prosecutors. Because of this, I swore I would never go into law. That being said, I started as a prosecutor and was really good at it. I realized that prosecution was designed to meet policies regarding maximum conviction rates and maximum incarceration metrics. In other words, it had no soul. As a defense attorney, I went from a ‘winning only’ mentality, to truly helping people navigate the most difficult times of their lives.”
Professional advice: “I would advise new lawyers to start with the government as either a prosecutor or a defense attorney. The pay is low, but it comes with an accelerated learning curve. Get in your reps, take on challenges and work and dress as if you are in private practice. Lean into it. Remember, a work/life balance means ‘a good work life and a good personal life.’ Work hard at both.”
Learn more: dmcantor.com
Andrew Abraham Partner
Burch & Cracchiolo
Practice areas: Real estate
Stephen R. Boatwright Shareholder
Gallagher & Kennedy
Background: Abraham is certified as a Real Estate Specialist by the Arizona Board of Legal Specialization and has been listed in Best Lawyers in America for Real Estate Transactions since 2008 and in every edition of Southwest Super Lawyers. In the 2011, 2014-2023 editions, Abraham was voted among the top 50 lawyers in Arizona by his peers. He is included among Arizona’s Finest Lawyers and is an AV® Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 peer review rated attorney in Martindale-Hubbell.
Surprising fact: “I hiked the Grand Canyon rim to rim when I was 8 years old then hitchhiked home to Phoenix. My escort was 13.”
Learn more: bcattorneys.com
Practice areas: M&A, securities, raising private equity, public financing
Background: Boatwright works with buyers and sellers of businesses of all kinds and advises companies in preparing registration statements (both IPO and secondary) and securities regulatory compliance documents. Boatwright is on the board of directors at Gallagher & Kennedy.
Attraction to law: “I fully intended to go into the business world, not law, but a college professor told me I should get both an MBA and a JD. The only courses I enjoyed involved business transactions, securities and finance, so I decided to start in the deal side of the legal industry. After taking a company public in my second year of practice, I was hooked.”
Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/ stephenboatwright/
THOMAS H. ALLEN
ALLEN, JONES & GILES
Focuses primarily on bankruptcy and debt law.
RYAN W. ANDERSON
BURCH & CRACCHIOLO
Practices in liquor licensing and regulatory compliance, bankruptcy/receiverships, commercial litigation, real estate litigation and transactions, and related business matters.
KEITH BEAUCHAMP
COPPERSMITH BROCKELMAN
Regularly represents clients in complex commercial disputes and litigation matters.
STEVEN N. BERGER
ENGELMAN BERGER
Specializes in bankruptcy and reorganization, creditor/debtor rights, business and financial restructuring, buying/selling businesses, commercial litigation and related corporate and transactional matters.
MARK S. BOSCO
TIFFANY & BOSCO
Practices in business organizations, closely held companies and family business law, banking, commercial litigation, securities litigation, tax law and related corporate matters.
JAMES T. BRASELTON
DICKINSON WRIGHT
Focuses on commercial litigation, corporate law, business transactions, labor and employment counseling, and related transactional and litigation matters for businesses of all sizes.
SHALEEN BREWER
BUCHALTER
Focuses her practice on employment law, commercial litigation and business transactions.
ED BULL
BURCH & CRACCHIOLO
Bull is a land use and zoning law and real estate law attorney.
REBECCA CAIN
SILVER CAIN
Cain is a trial lawyer with a background in business administration.
PAUL G. CEREGHINI
BOWMAN AND BROOKE
He is widely recognized as one of the best product liability trial lawyers in the U.S.
JILL J. CHASSON
COPPERSMITH BROCKELMAN
Focuses on helping businesses of all sizes in a variety of industries with their employment law needs.
JOSEPH T. CLEES
OGLETREE DEAKINS
Specializes in employment and labor law, including labor relations, discrimination and wrongful discharge defense, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution.
LINCOLN COMBS
O’STEEN MACLEOD COMBS
Focuses on plaintiffs’ litigation, including medical malpractice law, personal injury litigation, and product liability litigation on behalf of injured clients.
BENNETT EVAN COOPER
DICKINSON WRIGHT
Co - chairs the Appeals & Advocacy Practice Group, handling federal and state appellate litigation and complex commercial appeals.
BRADLEY A. COSMAN
PERKINS COIE
Cosman counsels stakeholders in all aspects of restructuring, bankruptcy, and insolvency.
DANIELLE DANCHO
HISER BURGGRAFF CURTIS
Dancho assists clients with all aspects of environmental regulation, including air, waste and water quality issues.
HELEN R. DAVIS
THE CAVANAGH LAW FIRM
Davis focuses on difficult divorce and guardianship lawsuits.
BARBARA J. DAWSON
SNELL & WILMER
Dawson’s practice has concentrated on assisting Fortune 500 businesses and boards of directors with internal investigations, complex litigation and regulatory compliance.
SARAH K. DEUTSCH
TIFFANY & BOSCO
Deutsch primarily focuses her practice on probate and trust litigation, elder law, and estate and trust administration.
JOHN E. DEWULF
COPPERSMITH BROCKELMAN
He has almost four decades of experience in complex commercial litigation.
Jodi R. Bohr Shareholder
Milligan Lawless
Practice areas: Bohr has been representing businesses in avoiding and resolving employment disputes for over 20 years.
Background: Bohr adeptly counsels clients on a wide array of state and federal employment laws. She conducts workplace investigations, assists with performance management issues and handles other human resource matters on behalf of clients. She advocates for her clients in federal and state courts as well as before administrative agencies, including the Department of Labor, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Arizona Civil Rights Division, Industrial Commission of Arizona, Office of Special Counsel, and the Occupational Health & Safety Administration. Her experience both in and out of the courtroom has provided her with unique insights into case strategy.
Learn more: milliganlawless.com/
BENJAMIN GOTTLIEB GOTTLIEB LAW
Gottlieb has handled hundreds of real estate, business and commercial cases.
CHRISTINA S. HAMILTON
THE CAVANAGH LAW FIRM
Hamilton focuses her practice on family law, including complex divorce, custody, and related domestic relations matters.
JILL ANN HERMAN APRIO LEGAL
Herman’s practice spans complex litigation, including product liability, personal injury, professional and general liability, construction law, and risk management for businesses and individuals.
JAMES E. HOLLAND TAFT
He is best known for his consistent victories in construction litigation.
Shannon L. Clark
Gallagher & Kennedy
Gallagher & Kennedy
Practice areas: Personal injury and wrongful death
Background: Clark is a shareholder and member of the board of directors at Gallagher & Kennedy. As co-chair of the firm’s catastrophic injury practice, Clark is dedicated to trying, litigating and resolving cases involving motor vehicle crashes, aviation disasters, commercial trucking wrecks, product liability,and professional negligence.
Attraction to law: “Oddly, I didn’t initially plan to be a lawyer. I wanted to be a newspaper journalist, but eventually realized that path wasn’t quite what I expected, so I explored other careers that would let me write and talk to people. Law seemed to be a good fit, and I have never regretted that choice.”
Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/ shannonclark/
Practice areas: Real estate litigation, insurance coverage and utility regulation
Background: Cranston is a member of the firm’s board of directors. Her unique practice includes real estate litigation, insurance coverage and utility regulation. For the past 25 years, she has counseled private property owners and acquiring agencies in condemnation actions and valuation issues. In her insurance practice, Cranston advocates for business owners and individuals in coverage and bad faith disputes. On the regulatory side, she represents public utilities in rate cases and other important policy matters before the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Attraction to law: “Initially, I watched too many courtroom dramas on TV as a child. Fortunately, the practice of law in the real world has been less dramatic and more rewarding than I imagined.”
Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/ jennifercranston/
Co-managing shareholder Greenberg Traurig
Practice areas: Real estate litigation, financial services litigation and postacquisition dispute
Background: Goodwin is a problem solver and complex commercial litigator, whose practice includes real estate litigation, financial services litigation and postacquisition disputes. She has represented public and private corporate clients in state and federal trial and appeals courts, as well as before administrative tribunals and arbitration venues. Goodwin is a counselor and advisor on exposure and litigation alternatives for clients that range from Arizona-based businesses to large national clients. Goodwin has first chair experience litigating fiduciary duty claims involving directors, officers and shareholders of corporations and members of limited liability companies. She has represented clients in matters resulting in obtaining preliminary and final injunctive relief.
Learn more: gtlaw.com/en/professionals/g/ goodwin-nicole
Cohen Dowd Quigley
Practice areas:
Stillman Smith Gadow
Practice areas: Family law
Background: Durchslag is a partner at Cohen Dowd Quigley, a 13-lawyer litigation boutique in Phoenix. Durchslag first joined CDQ in 1998 and has litigated in Arizona and multiple other jurisdictions for over 28 years. During his time at CDQ, Durchslag has successfully guided CDQ clients through virtually every type of business or commercial dispute, including real estate litigation, business torts, intellectual property and employment matters, and fiduciary breaches. In addition, from 1999 until 2003, Durchslag served as in-house counsel for an international nutritional company headquartered in Scottsdale, including devoting more than two years as the company’s general counsel. Durchslag prides himself on bringing an aggressive, but business-minded, perspective to the world of high-stakes civil litigation.
Learn more: cdqlaw.com/daniel-e-durchslag/
Background: Gadow’s practice focuses exclusively on complex family law litigation, mediation and parenting coordinator work. Gadow has been a Certified Specialist in Family Law since 2002. She has been a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) since 2014. There are only 1,500 AAML Fellows across the U.S. and they are generally recognized by judges and attorneys as preeminent family law practitioners with the highest level of knowledge, skill and integrity.
Gadow has been listed in Best Lawyers of America in Family Law since 2021 and is AV Preeminent rated through Martindale-Hubbell. She currently serves as a parenting coordinator.
Learn more: ssgfamilylaw.com
JOHN ALAN DORAN
TAFT
Doran focuses his practice in the areas of labor and employment, appellate advocacy and litigation.
ANDREA DRIGGS
HOLLAND & HART
Driggs helps mining and energy clients navigate cross-jurisdictional environmental and natural resource issues.
STEPHANIE FIERRO
KELLER ROHRBACK
Fierro focuses on business and estate matters, including estate planning, probate, trust administration and corporate transactions.
ELIZABETH S. FITCH
RIGHI FITCH LAW GROUP
She is a trial attorney with over 35 years of civil defense experience and has the AV Preeminent Rating.
SUSAN M. FREEMAN
WOMBLE BOND DICKINSON
Freeman focuses on business bankruptcy and appeals law.
DAVID E. FUNKHOUSER III
SPENCER FANE
Funkhouser counsels clients in complex commercial litigation matters.
LAUREN L. GARNER
JABURG WILK
Garner focuses her practice on probate and trust litigation, estate planning, and handling guardianship and conservatorship matters
JOHN T. GILBERT
APRIO LEGAL
Gilbert practices in real estate law, commercial litigation and corporate law, with additional experience in employment law, construction matters, estate planning, mergers and acquisitions, and trust and probate disputes.
TIMOTHY R. HYLAND
THE CAVANAGH LAW FIRM
He has represented the insurance industry in complex insurance coverage and litigation matters for over 35 years.
MAE INNABI
GREENSPOON MARDER
Innabi is an attorney in the corporate and real estate practice groups.
COLLEEN GOODELL KNECHT
GIBSON KNECHT
Goodell Knecht is a real estate law and business law lawyer.
ANDY KVESIC
APRIO LEGAL
Kvesic brings two decades of diverse legal experience spanning litigation, government, regulatory affairs and corporate counsel roles.
ADAM E. LANG
SNELL & WILMER
Lang has a varied general and complex commercial litigation practice.
DANA M. LEVY
DICKINSON WRIGHT
Levy practices family law, including divorce, property division, parenting time, paternity, spousal maintenance, child support and post-decree disputes.
TAMALYN E. LEWIS
ENGELMAN BERGER
She has extensive experience representing financial institutions, landlords, creditors and individuals in commercial bankruptcies, foreclosures, loan workouts, agricultural matters, real-estate matters and settlement negotiations.
MARK A. MCGINNIS
SALMON, LEWIS & WELDON
McGinnis’ practice focuses on water rights, natural resources, energy law, environmental, complex commercial litigation and the law relating to special districts.
PAUL J. MCGOLDRICK
SHORALL MCGOLDRICK
He focuses his litigation practice on personal injury cases and has experience as lead counsel in complex business disputes.
ROBERT H. MCKIRGAN
PAPETTI SAMUELS WEISS MCKIRGAN
McKirgan is one of the premier trial lawyers in Arizona.
LISA C. MCNORTON
MCNORTON FOX
McNorton has been practicing in family law in Tucson since 2000.
JOEL W. NOMKIN
PERKINS COIE
Nomkin has more than 30 years of experience in the areas of complex commercial litigation and appellate law.
Attorney Osborn Maledon
Practice areas: Grabel represents energy, water, wastewater, telecommunication and natural gas companies in regulatory matters before the Arizona Corporation Commission, including initiation and expansion of service areas, rate cases, financing applications, negotiation of various extension and service agreements, plant and service territory acquisitions and divestitures, and energy generation and transmission projects, among others. She also handles appeals from adverse administrative and public utility commission decisions and utility-associated litigation, including condemnations. She also represents clients in energy development activities, including permitting and contract negotiations.
Attraction to law: “I grew up performing and am a strong writer, and those talents seemed well suited to becoming an attorney. I also have extended family who ran successful law practices and they encouraged me to pursue law as a career. Now, my motivation is the job itself. I love my clients and the work that I do — it is challenging and requires a creative and open mind to accomplish strategic goals. Most of my clients do not hire me for one matter but involve me in most aspects of their regulatory operations. I enjoy being part of the team.”
Learn more: omlaw.com
Shareholder
Greenberg Traurig
Practice areas: Fixed-rate and variable-rate tax-exempt bonds, pledged revenue obligations, lease purchase certificates of participation, revolving fund loan programs, municipal leasing issues
Background: Sakas focuses his practice on providing bond counsel services to all types of Arizona political subdivisions, guiding them through the issuance and sale of bonds to pay for infrastructure and improvements. In addition to representing Arizona political subdivisions, Sakas advises investment banks that underwrite municipal bonds and banks that acquire governmental obligations for their own portfolios. Sakas has represented issuers, underwriters, and other transaction participants in a comprehensive variety of public finance transactions.
Motivation: “It is extremely satisfying to see the impact of my work in Arizona communities of all sizes. Every project is important to me because I understand the value of the project to the local community, whether it is a fire station, a new town hall, or expanding a city aquatic facility. Every transaction is a puzzle, and it is rewarding to use my experience to deliver innovative and creative solutions.”
Learn more: gtlaw.com
President
Practice areas: Ingold is a seasoned employment law and litigation specialist, providing expert counsel on workplace issues and representing clients before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and in state and federal courts.
Background: Ingold practices in employment law and litigation and regularly advises clients regarding issues of workplace discrimination, employer policies, employee discipline and termination, and compliance with state and federal labor and employment laws. She regularly represents clients before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and in complex litigation matters in state and federal court. As an experienced litigator and trial lawyer, Ingold has successfully defended corporations, businesses, employers, executives and management in jury trials throughout Arizona’s state and federal courts. In 2021, Ingold was instrumental in big win for a Humane Society of the United States case against a puppy mill operator operating in an unscrupulous manner.
Source of pride: “The professional accomplishments I’m most proud of are my client relationships. I’ve built these relationships on confidence and trust through providing expertise, advice and support whenever and wherever needed, even in the courtroom. Working together with my clients to achieve great results is the ultimate accomplishment.”
Learn more: bcattorneys.com
Partner
Quarles
Practice areas: Haller is national chair of the Quarles Real Estate Practice Group
Background: With over 30 years in real estate law, Haller has had tremendous impact on many premier and highly complex real estate projects, spanning acquisitions, developments, incentive and other agreements, and financing matters. Among the signature projects on which Haller has played a pivotal role are Downtown Phoenix redevelopment projects like Collier Center and Renaissance Square; the redevelopment of Park Central Mall in Midtown Phoenix; the redevelopment of the Metrocenter Mall in Northwest Phoenix; the development of the master-planned ASU Athletic Facilities District in Tempe; and development of an international client’s U.S. battery manufacturing hub in Arizona.
Learn more: quarles.com/people/diane-haller
Partner and owner
Lazarus & Silvyn, P.C.
Practice areas: Commercial real estate, land use law and zoning
Background: For more than four decades, Lazarus has helped numerous clients achieve successful outcomes utilizing his expertise in commercial real estate, land use law and zoning. As partner and owner at Lazarus & Silvyn, P.C., his practice centers on guiding clients through complex entitlement processes, project approvals and comprehensive planning efforts. Throughout his career, he has helped shape projects that not only advance client objectives but also support long-term community goals and contribute to sustainable growth across Arizona.
Professional accomplishments: Lazarus has been recognized annually in Best Lawyers in America since 2007 and was named Az Business magazine’s “Top 100 Lawyer” in Arizona in 2024 in commercial real estate. Under his leadership, Lazarus & Silvyn, P.C. has earned consistent recognition in U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.”
Contact: LLazarus@LSLawAZ.com or 602-340-0900
Practice area: Mediation and arbitration
Background: Lieberman has been recognized in Best Lawyers of America, Southwest Super Lawyers and Top Attorneys in Arizona for over 20 years in ADR. She has mediated and arbitrated over 4,000 conflicts, primarily in employment law and commercial disputes. She is the author of the highlyacclaimed book, “Mediation Success: Get it Out, Get it Over, Get Back to Business,” and has been a regular contributing writer for various legal, HR and business publications.
Attraction to law: “I couldn’t decide between becoming a psychologist or a lawyer when I was in college. Though I chose law, ultimately mediation proved to be a perfect blend of those two interests. Neutral work has been an amazing career for 25 years.”
Learn more: insightmediation.com
Practice area: Complex litigation
Background: Kercsmar has represented clients in complex litigation for over 25 years with a focus on commonsense, realistic solutions. Kercsmar has prosecuted and defended lawsuits involving business contracts, corporate governance, intellectual property, construction and finance issues, professional malpractice and commercial fraud. He has represented a wide range of clients in many industries, from Fortune 500 companies to individuals.
Source of pride: “I am most proud of a decades-long track record of responding to client priorities and fashioning resolutions that enable our clients to return to their primary focus: driving profitability. I have always observed that most clients do not want to be involved in litigation, even when they are forced to sue. Clients want advice that focuses on their unique circumstances, and seek to work with attorneys who are flexible in their approach to achieve results in a cost-efficient and logical way. I’ve been proud to deliver that kind of service to my clients over several decades. At Kercsmar & O’Hara, we see our long term, relationshipbuilding approach pay off year after year, as clients return to us for advice when their legal needs dictate intelligent solutions.”
Learn more: kandolaw.com/
Maledon Attorney Osborn Maledon
Practice areas: Maledon is amongst the most esteemed commercial litigation and trial attorneys in Arizona and across the U.S.
Background: Maledon is a prominent figure both in federal and state courts, with notable expertise in antitrust, securities and sports-related matters. He also has extensive experience in handling appellate matters in both federal and state courts and has acted as mediator and arbitrator in cases of local and national significance.
Source of pride: “Over the years, I have tried to build a firm that not only prides itself on high quality legal work, but also devotes much of its resources to public good in the form of pro bono work — work that can often be much more important and satisfying than anything else.”
Learn more: omlaw.com
Kiersten A. Murphy Shareholder
Gallagher & Kennedy
Practice areas: Public bidding and procurement, litigation, administrative and regulatory appeals
Background: Murphy is a shareholder in Gallagher & Kennedy’s public bidding/ procurement and commercial litigation practices, advising Arizona business owners who want to do business with local and state government. She works with mid- and large-sized companies to pursue meaningful opportunities for their businesses operating in virtually any industry — from healthcare and transportation to food and beverage providers, and technology and software companies. Murphy also represents businesses and individuals in a variety of commercial and civil lawsuits. She has been named to Az Business Magazine’s Business Leaders To Watch and Southwest Super Lawyers Top 25 Women in Arizona.
Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/ kierstenmurphy/
Founder
The Palumbo Law Firm
Practice areas: Personal injury, medical malpractice and wrongful death
Background: Palumbo is a trial lawyer dedicated to representing those who have suffered serious personal injuries and those who have lost loved ones to wrongful death. He is a past president of the Arizona Association for Justice/ Arizona Trial Lawyers Association and an adjunct professor at Arizona State University’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law. Palumbo is included in The Best Lawyers in America and was named the 2023 “Lawyer of the Year” for both Plaintiff’s Medical Malpractice Law and Plaintiff’s Personal Injury Litigation. In 2024, Palumbo obtained the largest personal injury verdict in Arizona history for his clients, $90 million.
Learn more: spalumbo.com
Founder and CEO // Rafi Law Group
Background: Rafi is the founder and CEO of Rafi Law Group, one of Arizona’s largest personal injury law firms, serving clients across Phoenix, Tucson and Yuma. Raised in Arizona and educated at Brophy College Preparatory, the University of Arizona and Phoenix School of Law, Rafi built his firm on the belief that everyone deserves strong and compassionate legal representation. Under his leadership, Rafi Law Group has grown to more than 250 professionals and is recognized statewide for its commitment to justice and community service. Rafi also founded Rafi’s Hope, a nonprofit initiative supporting children and families through education, food assistance and volunteer outreach. His approach to law and leadership is rooted in service, integrity and helping people rebuild their lives with dignity.
Attraction to law: “I chose to pursue law because I saw how a single act of advocacy could change a person’s life. Growing up, I witnessed families face hardship without access to the legal help they needed. That inspired me to build a firm that stands beside people when they need it most. Over the years, my motivation has grown from winning cases to creating change. Every client’s story reminds me that our work is not only about justice but also about restoring hope and stability. Helping others navigate their toughest moments keeps me grounded and grateful for the opportunity to serve.”
Biggest reward: “The most rewarding part of my work is helping people rebuild their lives after tragedy. Many of our clients come to us at their lowest point, unsure of what comes next. Seeing them regain stability and confidence reminds me why I chose this profession. I also find fulfillment in mentoring our team and watching them grow into leaders who care deeply about our clients and community. Through our firm’s outreach program, Rafi’s Hope, we extend that same commitment beyond the courtroom by supporting Arizona families in need. Helping others move forward is the most meaningful measure of success.”
Learn more: rafilawgroup.com
BRANDON B. RAFI: “At Rafi Law Group, we invest in technology and education to stay ahead of these changes while keeping our focus on the human side of every case,” says the founder and CEO of Rafi Law Group. (Photo by Carl Schultz)
Managing
partner
Berry Riddell
Practice areas: Zoning and land use law
Background: Riddell is the founding and managing partner of Berry Riddell and a leading voice in land use law and lobbying across the Phoenix region. She has guided major projects including Fiesta Mall, Mesa Gateway Airport, the IDEA Campus, 10 Goodyear, and multiple Honor Health sites, helping shape the Phoenix and Tempe skyline. A committed community leader, she has served on numerous boards and task forces and has been recognized with honors such as the Xavier Women of Achievement Award, Az Business magazine Top 100 Lawyers, and The Best Lawyers in America. Riddell holds degrees from Colgate University and Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law.
Learn more: berryriddell.com/
Attorney
Osborn Maledon
Practice areas: Roth handles a variety of high-stakes disputes in trial and appellate courts.
Background: Roth’s practice spans civil and criminal government investigations, complex commercial litigation with a focus on securities, and appeals. He represents companies, individuals, and government agencies, often in matters requiring both courtroom advocacy and careful navigation of regulatory terrain. Roth is recognized by Chambers USA, Benchmark Litigation, and Best Lawyers among others.
Attraction to law: “I didn’t grow up knowing any lawyers. I could see that law offered a good career that matched what I enjoyed: reading, writing, and persuading. And advocating for people to help them through difficult issues could provide meaning to my career. What I didn’t predict is how meaningful the work could be. Working closely with clients to solve consequential problems is incredibly rewarding.”
Learn more: omlaw.com
Attorney
Osborn Maledon
Practice areas: Geoff Sturr represents individuals and businesses in lawsuits, arbitrations, and administrative proceedings.
Background: A significant part of Sturr’s practice for the last 30 years has been representing lawyers and law firms in legal malpractice, bar admission, and bar discipline matters. He serves as Osborn Maledon’s General Counsel and regularly advises law firms and lawyers on risk management and ethics matters.
Attraction to law: “I welcomed the opportunity to speak for and advocate on behalf of others.”
Professional advice: “Treat everyone you encounter as you would like to be treated.”
Learn more: omlaw.com
RANDY PAPETTI
PAPETTI SAMUELS WEISS MCKIRGAN
Papetti is a seasoned Scottsdale‑based litigator specializing in complex business and antitrust litigation.
LISA REILLY PAYTON
FRAZER RYAN GOLDBERG & ARNOLD
Payton focuses her Phoenix practice on estate planning, tax planning, probate and trust administration, and federal/state tax controversy.
KRISTY L. PETERS
LITTLER
Peters focuses on employment and labor law, representing employers in matters including discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, unfair competition, and related workplace litigation and counseling.
JODY K. POKORSKI
SNELL & WILMER
Pokorski’s practice centers on commercial real estate law.
PATRICIA LEE REFO
SNELL & WILMER
Refo offers appeals and critical motions, auditor and accountant defense, and class action litigation.
SCOTT RHODES
SPENCER FANE
Rhodes provides trusted counsel to attorneys, law firms, legal departments, in house counsel and government agencies.
CRAIG J. ROSENSTEIN
ROSENSTEIN LAW GROUP
Rosenstein is a well respected criminal defense attorney.
THOMAS J. SALERNO
STINSON
Salerno focuses on complex commercial corporate and real estate restructurings.
BRUCE SAMUELS
PAPETTI SAMUELS WEISS MCKIRGAN
Samuels is recognized as among the top litigators in Arizona.
BRIAN J. SCHULMAN
WEISS BROWN
Schulman’s litigation practice focuses on complex business disputes, including contract matters, fraud, securities law, shareholder disputes and real estate.
THOMAS J. SHORALL, JR.
SHORALL MCGOLDRICK
Shorall is a Certified Specialist in personal injury and wrongful death.
DAVID S. SHUGHART
BEALE MICHEAELS SLACK & SHUGHART
Shughart primarily represents injured individuals and insurance policyholders.
Partner and owner
Lazarus & Silvyn, P.C.
James R. Taylor Shareholder
Milligan Lawless
Andrea S. Tazioli Founder NCP Law
Practice areas: Zoning and land use, commercial real estate
Background: Silvyn is a partner and owner at Lazarus & Silvyn, P.C., where she practices zoning and land use law in Southern Arizona. For more than 25 years, her work has focused on advising private developers and local governments on the application of zoning codes, compliance with current state statutes and land use case law, and effective public/private partnerships. She represents infill developments, as well as projects in the medical, retail and industrial spaces, among others.
Professional accomplishments: Silvyn has been recognized annually in Best Lawyers in America since 2008. In addition, she has been added to the 2025 Southwest Super Lawyers list. Lazarus & Silvyn, P.C. also has been ranked annually in U.S. News – Best Lawyers “Best Law Firms.”
Contact: KSilvyn@LSLawAZ.com or 520-207-4464
Practice areas: Healthcare and real estate
Background: Taylor has been representing clients in Arizona since 1991. Taylor concentrates his practice in the areas of healthcare and real estate matters. His healthcare practice includes transactional, compliance and reimbursement matters, through which he provides assistance analyzing relationships among healthcare providers to determine compliance with fraud and abuse laws; organizing horizontal and vertical healthcare ventures; providing guidance to providers on matters relating to internal investigation and reporting; drafting a variety of contracts, including provider agreements, management contracts and joint venture documents. Taylor’s real estate representation includes advising clients in connection with real estate purchase and sale agreements, property development matters and leasing arrangements.
Learn more: milliganlawless.com/
Practice areas: White Collar crime/ criminal defense, commercial litigation and government and internal investigations
Background: Tazioli founded NCP Law after 15 years of experience as both an associate and partner at an AM Law 200 Phoenix firm and as a partner at a small boutique firm. In the commercial litigation context, Tazioli represents businesses and corporations in numerous business disputes and assists clients in obtaining injunctive relief. She has over 18 years of experience in all aspects of litigation, including law and motion practice, mediation, arbitration, trial and appellate practice.
Professional advice: “Your reputation is everything in this profession, and how you treat others is a direct reflection of you.”
Learn more: ncplawyers.com/
Cohen Dowd Quigley
Practice areas: All areas of commercial litigation, including cases raising antitrust, intellectual property, and real estate issues.
Background: Quigley is a Cohen Dowd Quigley partner and the firm’s vice president. He has practiced law since 1984. Quigley has lectured at Arizona’s Professionalism courses and been an instructor at the NITA’s Deposition Skills Program. Quigley has been listed in Southwest Super Lawyers every year since its inception, including in its Top 50 attorneys list.
Attraction to law: “My father was the first lawyer in our extended family and later was a judge in Tucson. I always looked up to my dad and wanted to follow in his footsteps.”
Learn more: cdqlaw.com/
BRADLEY D. SHWER
THORPE SHWER
Shwer practices in the areas of business and commercial litigation, personal injury torts and products liability.
LEON SILVER
SILVER CAIN
He is a trial lawyer with more than 35 years experience handling complex commercial and real estate disputes.
LAURA SIXKILLER
GREENBERG TRAURIG
Sixkiller is an experienced litigator and trial attorney representing clients in highstakes litigation and investigations.
K. THOMAS SLACK
BEALE MICHEAELS SLACK & SHUGHART
Slack represents plaintiffs in catastrophic injury and wrongful death.
GENA L. SLUGA
CHRISTIAN DICHTER & SLUGA
Her practice emphasizes insurance coverage analysis.
President and founder Sender Associates
Practice areas: Zoning and land use
Background: Sender is a zoning attorney and president and founder of Sender Associates, a woman-owned and AV-rated law firm based in Tempe, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. For more than 30 years, Sender has been involved in the development and entitlement fields. Over the past nine years, she has entitled over 3,000 urban high-rise residential units, with 2,000 units averaging 400 dua currently in entitlements. Sender is proud to be helping build Tempe’s new skyline as entitlement counsel for many distinctive Tempe projects, such as The Union by Opus, The Local/Whole Foods by Forum Development, The Westin Tempe by CAI Investments, Atmosphere by Trinitas, The Pier by Springbrook Development, First + Farmer by Wexford Development, Dwell by Holualoa and Revelry by Aspirant.
Source of pride: “I am proud my firm has reached its 25th year. I have many amazing clients who care about the communities they develop in and the quality of the projects they build. I still enjoy my work every day.”
Learn more: senderlaw.com
ALAN SOELBERG
DAVIS MILES
He focuses on business transactions, estate planning and asset protection.
MELISSA SOLIZ
COPPERSMITH BROCKELMAN
She has a regulatory health law and consumer data practice.
MARIA CRIMI SPETH
JABURG WILK
Speth practices in the areas of intellectual property, internet law and commercial litigation.
THOMAS STANEK
OGLETREE DEAKINS
Stanek co-chairs Ogletree Deakins’ Traditional Labor Relations Practice Group.
GARY B. STRICKLAND
APRIO LEGAL
He focuses his practice on probate and estate controversies and elder matters.
ROBERT T. SULLIVAN
BROENING OBERG WOODS & WILSON
Sullivan’s practice areas include insurance defense, bad faith, coverage, professional liability defense, general litigation and commercial litigation.
DEBORA L. VERDIER
THE CAVANAGH LAW FIRM
Verdier is a senior partner specializing in labor and employment law, insurance defense, and commercial litigation.
LINDSI M. WEBER
THE BURGESS LAW GROUP
Weber is an experienced bankruptcy and commercial litigator.
SCOTT K. WEISS
WEISS BROWN
Weiss is a corporate and securities attorney whose practice focuses on mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, business and corporate law, and related securities matters for growth companies.
ERIC C. WILHELM BUCHALTER
Wilhelm’s practice focuses on a broad range of commercial real estate transactions, including industrial, office and retail leasing, real property sales, acquisitions and development, and secured financing.
LONNIE J. WILLIAMS, JR. TAFT
Williams is a trial lawyer who has experience in commercial business and employment-related matters.
MARK G. WORISCHECK SANDERS & PARKS
Worischeck’s practice emphasizes complex civil litigation, primarily in the areas of insurance coverage, insurance bad faith, aviation, construction litigation, personal injury and product liability.
Partner
Meagher + Geer
Practice areas: Zitzer is a litigation attorney and serves as the practice chair for the firm’s Commercial Litigation and Professional Liability practice group
Background: Zitzer is a litigation attorney who practices out of the firm’s Chicago and Phoenix offices. He is a member of the firm’s Management Committee and serves as the practice chair for the firm’s Commercial Litigation and Professional Liability practice groups. His practice focuses on the defense of insurance coverage cases nationwide, with extensive experience in mediating, arbitrating, litigating and trying cases across more than 15 jurisdictions. Additionally, his professional liability practice centers on defending accountants, architects, and attorneys. Zitzer is a Senior Fellow in the Litigation Counsel of America, an invitation-only trial lawyer honor society. He has also been selected by his peers for inclusion in the Best Lawyers® list for more than a decade. He has twice been named by Best Lawyers as its Scottsdale “Lawyer of the Year” for insurance law, in 2026 and in 2019.
Learn more: meagher.com/our-people/kzitzer/
attorneys are fostering innovation, advancing diversity and ensuring the profession’s
By MICHAEL GOSSIE
It was actually soccer that led Madison Burr to a career in law.
“I was inspired to pursue a career in law upon my realization that my closest mentors — at that time, a handful of athletic directors at Arizona State University — all held JDs and had successful careers as lawyers prior to working for Sun Devil Athletics,” says Burr,
an associate at Dorsey & Whitney who was also a Pac-12 All-Academic First Team soccer player for ASU.
“As a young student-athlete, I so admired my mentors’ intelligence, leadership and interpersonal skills, much of which they credit to attending law school and pursuing a career in law prior to their endeavors in collegiate athletics,” Burr says. “No matter
what career I chose post-law school, they said, graduating with a JD would be one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life and would propel me towards success in any professional field. I now want to inspire and instill those aspirations in the next generation of young lawyers.”
So far, Burr is winning her case for inspiring the next generation of attorneys. Burr is one of 50 Emerging Leaders in Law for 2026, selected by Az Business magazine’s editorial board in consultation with industry experts.
Recognizing emerging leaders in Arizona’s legal industry is essential for fostering innovation, advancing diversity and ensuring the profession’s future success. It highlights rising talent, encourages mentorship and celebrates individuals shaping Arizona’s legal landscape with fresh perspectives, strong ethics, and a commitment to justice and community impact. And, no doubt, these emerging leaders will reshape the legal industry as we know it.
“The legal profession is currently undergoing rapid and profound changes,” says Phillip London of Osborn Maledon, another of the 50 Emerging Leaders in Law for 2026. “Artificial intelligence is inevitable. It is going to reshape virtually every aspect of the practice of law. Don’t be a luddite. Accept the fact that this seismic shift is occurring and become an early adopter. The young lawyers who master these new AI tools and incorporate them into their practice will prove invaluable over the long term.” Meet the 50 Emerging Leaders in Law for 2026 on the pages that follow.
ATTORNEY
COHEN DOWD QUIGLEY
Background: Brownlee joined Cohen Dowd Quigley PC in 2017, after obtaining her law degree from Loyola University Chicago School of Law. Brownlee represents clients from the public to private sector in complex commercial litigation and appeals. Brownlee’s cases have involved a wide spectrum of issues, ranging from breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, defamation, fraud, professional negligence, conspiracy, the Arizona Public Records Act, Section 1983 and Title IX. She has litigated cases through all stages of trial.
Professional advice: “Two things have helped me immensely in this profession and I would encourage all new lawyers to consider. First, I would encourage every new lawyer to advocate for themselves because no one is going to do it for you. Second, I would encourage every new lawyer to find a good mentor. Mentorship is so important in this profession and goes a long way in career advancement.”
Learn more: cdqlaw.com/jenna-brownlee/
ELISE ADAMS
TIFFANY & BOSCO
Practice areas: Real estate, creditor rights, foreclosure law
NICHOLAS BAUMAN
WOMBLE BOND DICKINSON
Practice areas: Intellectual property, patent prosecution, biotechnology, life sciences
KYLIE BIGELOW
MODERN LAW
Practice areas: Family law, divorce, custody, spousal maintenance
MICHAEL F. BOSCO JR.
TIFFANY & BOSCO
Practice areas: Trustee sales, foreclosure law, creditor rights, bankruptcy
NICHOLAS J. BROWN
THE CAVANAGH LAW FIRM
Practice areas: Civil litigation, insurance defense, personal injury, medical malpractice
SAMANTHA BROWN
STATE 48 LAW
Practice areas: Family law, divorce, custody, child support
PARKER BUNCH
THE CAVANAGH LAW FIRM
Practice areas: Civil litigation, medical malpractice defense, personal injury defense
REBEKAH BURZ
CANTOR LAW GROUP
Practice areas: Family law
ASHLEY CABALLERO-DALTREY
JONES SKELTON & HOCHULI
MEA DONNELLY
OGLETREE DEAKINS
Practice areas: Employment litigation
KACIE DONOVAN
GREENBERG TRAURIG
Practice areas: Complex commercial litigation
AARON DUELL
BURCH & CRACCHIOLO
Practice areas: Employment law/litigation and commercial litigation
LUCAS P. FREI
PHILLIPS LAW GROUP
Practice areas: Tax controversy and litigation, tax planning, estate planning
CANDACE D. FRENCH
SACKS TIERNEY
Practice areas: Native American law
TYLER GODBEHERE TAFT
Practice areas: Public finance and real estate
SENIOR COUNSEL QUARLES
Practice areas: Complex commercial real estate transactions
Practice areas: Federal and state appellate matters
BRIANNA CAMPBELL
ROSE LAW GROUP
Practice areas: Litigation, insurance defense, real estate litigation, alternative dispute resolution, professional malpractice defense, commercial litigation
BRANDON CAYWOOD
NIXON PEABODY
Practice areas: Public finance tax
Background: Elliott McNeill advises clients on all aspects of complex commercial real estate transactions, including sales and acquisitions, portfolio sales, financings, construction and commercial leasing.
Learn more: quarles.com/people/alielliott-mcneill
DORSEY & WHITNEY
Background: Burr is a commercial litigator who has represented a diverse clientele in federal and state court proceedings across a wide range of industries including real estate, finance, banking, construction, employment, trusts and estates, and more. She also has experience leading successful post-judgment enforcement and collection actions for clients. Named a Super Lawyers Southwest Rising Star honoree for 2024–2026, Burr also devotes substantial time to pro bono activities, including representing plaintiffs in wrongful conviction matters. Burr was a founding member of Dorsey & Whitney LLP’s Phoenix office, which opened in February 2022. Attraction to law: “I would be remiss not to mention Elle Woods — her inspiration for an entire generation of young women needs no explanation.”
Learn more: dorsey.com/people/b/burr-madison
DORSEY & WHITNEY
Background: Torres represents U.S. lenders in all aspects of negotiating and documenting financing transactions of all types and sizes, including single-bank and syndicated commercial loans, real estate loans, asset-based financings, and loans secured by multiple properties and collateral in different states.
Source of pride: “The professional accomplishment that gives me the most pride is the finance team that we’ve brought together in the Phoenix office. Our group has a foundation of trust, accountability and flexibility at all levels — from our staff to our senior partners — that makes working together truly enjoyable, and ultimately benefits our clients when we can all work together and contribute in unique ways to get the deal done in an efficient and business-smart manner.”
Learn more: dorsey.com/people/t/torres-hannah
SHANNON COHAN DIRECTOR FENNEMORE
Practice area: Business litigation
Background: Cohan is a business litigation attorney who guides clients through every stage of the litigation process — whether they are bringing a claim or defending against one. She represents clients across a broad range of industries, from individuals and sole proprietorships to Fortune 500 companies. She approaches each matter with a practical focus on problem-solving and achieving her client’s goals. She works to identify cost-effective and efficient solutions, whether that is through negotiation, mediation or litigation. If a negotiated solution is not possible, Cohan has substantial trial experience and a track record of winning even the most challenging cases.
Attraction to law: “I was first inspired to pursue a career in law in the third grade when I played Goldilocks in a mock trial and realized I wanted to be an active participant. That early spark grew into a passion for advocacy and problem-solving. Over the years, my motivation has evolved from a fascination with courtroom work to a deeper commitment to helping clients navigate challenges practically and efficiently. Today, I’m driven by the opportunity to protect my clients’ interests, provide honest guidance and achieve resolutions that support their long-term success.”
Learn more: fennemorelaw.com
Dorsey attorneys bring more than legal experience to the table. We offer our clients results-oriented advice reflecting a deep understanding of their business.
Hannah
Russell Torres
Banking & Finance Partner
Madison
Burr
Finance & Restructuring Associate
SENIOR ASSOCIATE
MILLIGAN LAWLESS
Practice areas: Commercial litigation, healthcare, employment and construction matters
Background: Gulinson brings practical judgment, clear communication and efficient case management to every matter, working to align litigation strategy with the client’s business objectives. In commercial disputes, Gulinson represents business organizations and members in cases involving contract breaches, business torts and fraud, litigating effectively in court, arbitration and other forms of alternative dispute resolution. Much of Gulinson’s work centers on the healthcare industry. Gulinson represents healthcare organizations, physicians and providers in a wide range of matters, including healthcare fraud and abuse, compliance and regulatory investigations at the state and federal level, licensing, HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 compliance, and related litigation in state, federal and administrative proceedings.
Learn more: milliganlawless.com/
PARTNER AND OWNER
LAZARUS & SILVYN, P.C.
Practice areas: Real estate, zoning and land use
Background: As a partner and owner at Lazarus & Silvyn, P.C., Juneman brings extensive experience in the practice areas of real estate, zoning and land use planning, including a specialization in sustainable development. He has represented clients in land use entitlement processes and hearings, negotiations with local jurisdictions, agencies and neighborhoods, and before boards of adjustment, planning commissions and design review committees. He also has worked with local jurisdictions to draft zoning ordinances and planned area developments.
Professional accomplishments: Juneman is a graduate of Baylor University and a graduate cum laude from the University of Arizona James E. Rogers College of Law. He serves as the board chair of the Law College Association at the James E. Rogers College of Law and a board member of the Metropolitan Pima Alliance.
Contact: RJuneman@LSLawAZ.com or 520-207-4464
KEVIN HAWKES
IPTECHLAW
Practice areas: Patent attorney, intellectual property
MICHELLE HOGAN
JABURG WILK
Practice areas: Complex commercial litigation, white collar defense and privacy matters
AMBER D. HUGHES
DICKINSON WRIGHT
Practice areas: Estate planning and probate and trust administration
SAMANTHA JONES BURKE
PERKINS COIE
Practice areas: Business litigation
ALEX KARAM
GLIDE LEGAL
Practice areas: Legal counsel to entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes
KELSI T. LANE
FRAZER RYAN GOLDBERG & ARNOLD
Practice areas: Probate administration, trust administration and estate planning
CHEYENNE ALEXIS MCLAIN
GALBUT BEABEAU
Practice areas: Intellectual property and business litigation matters
LILY M. MCNULTY
GREENBERG TRAURIG
Practice areas: Employment law and labor relations
KATELYN MORGAN
THE VALLEY LAW GROUP
Practice areas: Family law
SARAH A. NOE
BALLARD SPAHR
Practice areas: Environmental law, land use permitting, and regulatory/zoning compliance
SEAN QUINN
HUSCH BLACKWELL
Practice areas: Healthcare
ATTORNEY
OSBORN MALEDON
Practice areas: Londen’s practice focuses on complex commercial litigation, including water rights, Indian law, intellectual property litigation and condemnation law.
Background: Londen is a trial attorney. To date, he has more than 100 days of first and second chair trial experience. After graduating from ASU’s Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law in 2015, he clerked for the Hon. David G. Campbell for the United States District Court for the District of Arizona and the Hon. Andrew D. Hurwitz for the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.
Attraction to law: “I was drawn to law school by the promise of an intellectually challenging and stimulating career. Now, I am motivated by a desire to help my clients achieve their goals.”
Learn more: omlaw.com
Practice areas: Labor and employment
Background: Sieck is a member of Fennemore’s Labor & Employment and Employee Benefits/ERISA practice groups. He regularly advises employers on a wide range of workplace matters, including discrimination, retaliation, and wage and hour compliance. Sieck also counsels plan sponsors and fiduciaries on plan governance and administration under ERISA and guides employers through plan corrections, government audits and complex compliance issues. He is experienced with all types of benefit plans.
Attraction to law: “My interest in the law began with my family’s small business and the legal hurdles they regularly encountered. I saw early on how much of a difference knowledgeable, steady guidance could make — not just in resolving issues, but in helping a business stay confident and resilient.”
Learn more: fennemorelaw.com
SARAH RANDOLPH
BLAKE & PULSIFER
Practice areas: Estate planning, probate and trust administration
DANA R. ROBERTS
KNAPP & ROBERTS
Practice areas: Personal injury
JOHN A. SALVATORE
GOTTLIEB LAW
Practice areas: Complex real property disputes, litigation, business law
KAITLIN SECKER
SLATTERY PETERSEN
Practice areas: Healthcare, product liability and personal injury defense
SALIM ADEL SHLEEF
BECKER & HOUSE
Practice areas: Estate and trust litigation
KYLE STEPHENSON
CANTOR LAW GROUP
Practice areas: Family, civil litigation, wills and child welfare
SHAYNA STUART
TAFT
Practice areas: Commercial litigation, internal investigations
MICKELL SUMMERHAYS
GAMMAGE & BURNHAM
Practice areas: Construction law, contract disputes and commercial litigation
KATELYN E. TOWE
BURCH & CRACCHIOLO
Practice areas: Construction defect litigation and defense
ROBERT M. WARZEL
SPENCER FANE
Practice areas: Human resources
counseling, employment litigation and traditional labor law
KAREN WOHLGEMUTH
SPENCER FANE
Practice areas: Domestic relations
SCOTT WOODY
SPENCER FANE
Practice areas: Tax planning at the state and local levels
GALLAGHER & KENNEDY
Background: San Angelo focuses his practice in the areas of business law and transactions. Within those areas, his practice is industry-agnostic and focused primarily on mergers and acquisitions, securities, corporate governance, franchise matters and finance. He routinely serves as outside general counsel to his business clients, assisting them with matters ranging from entity structuring and commercial transactions to resolving disputes.
Attraction to law: “My mother is a judge in Pima County, currently serving in Juvenile Court. I watched her spend her career as an attorney working as a tireless advocate for child welfare. Seeing how she was able to make such a tremendous impact on the lives of children and families in Arizona through her legal capabilities inspired me to follow suit and become an attorney to try to make a similar impact. While my practice area is quite different, in the end the goal is the same: helping people solve problems and obtain good outcomes through the practice of law.”
Professional advice: “Treat people well and be someone people want to interact with. Being a ‘zealous advocate’ is not incompatible with being reasonable and pleasant.”
Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/dominicksanangelo/
